About
Blue Cross of California
Blue Cross is the largest health insurer
in California. They are the original innovator of some of the most popular plans
in the state. Many of the top selling plans offered by other insurers are based
off of Blue Cross plans. Some of the newest plans offered by Blue Cross include
their new Tonik series of plans and The Right Plan 40.
Right Plan 40
The Right Plan 40 remains a very popular plan despite recent rate increases and
increased competition from competitors with nearly identical plans. In some counties
it is still very popular. It is a PPO plan that has a zero deductible for labs,
tests, and x-rays with 40% coinsurance. Hospitaliation has a $500 per day co pay,
plus 40%. The coinsurance applies up to a maximum out of pocket of $7500 per individual.
Prescription drug coverage is offered as None, Generic Only with a $10 co pay, or
Generic and Brand Name Formulary. The Right Plan 40 Combination Rx plan has a $750
annual brand name deductible, then a $35 co pay. It does not cover non-formulary
brand names.
Tonik Plans
The Tonik plans offered exclusively on an online application have many innovations
consistent with Blue Cross's tradition of innovation. The plan is well designed,
has simplified expedited underwriting, and a cutting edge online application process.
However, in the interest of simplicity Blue Cross has opted for a one application
one insured policy. This creates a level of difficulty for couples, families, and
single parents with children in applying. Each person must apply individually on
their own application. Also, billing is separated out. So if you want one bill each
month, the Tonik plan is not for you. However if you are looking for a simple quick
online application, expedited and automated underwriting, and a quick decision,
Tonik may be what you are looking for.
PPO Share Plan
The Blue Cross PPO Share series of plans started out as the Premier PPO plan
in California. The PPO Share plans have deductibles ranging between $500 and $5000.
As the plans have aged, Blue Cross has changed the benefits of this very popular
series of plans. All the Share series plans still offer maternity coverage, and
the PPO Share 5000 is a great option for someone looking for maternity coverage
but that may be particularly price conscious. The richer plans, like the PPO Share
1500 are on the higher price side. But you cannot get a better plan than the PPO
Share plans, if your wallet can stand it. If like most our clients, you are also
looking to save some money, then the PPO Share plans may not be for you. They get
too pricy in many cases, and there are often alternative plans from competitive
carriers with low deductibles that still offer maternity coverage.
Select HMO Plan
The Blue Cross Select HMO for individuals and families is one of
the best priced HMO plans on the market, with very competitive benefits. On individual
plans, HMO's are generally more expensive than PPO plans. The Select HMO biggest
draw back is its reduced network of doctors. Many of the most popular doctors, provider
groups, and hospitals are out of network on this plan. If your are willing to reduce
choice for price, and want the benefits of an HMO style plan, then the Select HMO
is a great option.
Other Options
The other two Blue Cross HMO plans, the Blue Cross HMO Saver and
their HMO plan are very expensive plans with somewhat limited doctor’s network selection.
In general you can find a better HMO plan for less money with one of Blue Cross’s
competitors. Call us today at 877-758-7587 for a free quote, or complete a quote
online. There is no cost or obligation.
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