News Archive
All News
| Title | Issued Date |
|---|---|
Incorrect ID Card Mailing ImpactExcellus BCBS has identified that incorrect ID cards were recently mailed out to some small groups. Since ID cards are mailed in batches, not all small group members would have received an incorrect ID card. We are working promptly to reissue ID cards for those... |
November 19, 2024 |
REMINDER: Gag Clause Prohibition Attestation Under the Consolidated Appropriation ActAs a reminder, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield (Excellus BCBS) has determined that we will be completing the attestation on behalf of our fully insured and minimum premium groups for the time they had Excellus BCBS coverage in 2024. If any additional information is required... |
November 19, 2024 |
Healthy New York - New Group Application and Recertification FormThe new Healthy New York – New Group Application is now available for small groups. The New Group Application should only be used when a small group is applying for a standalone Healthy New York plan, or when applying for Healthy New York along with another... |
November 19, 2024 |
Health Status QuestionnaireWe encourage all plan members to complete a health status questionnaire upon enrollment and annually thereafter. We use this information to identify our members who may need care right away and are eligible for health care services that may be beneficial to them. Our case... |
November 19, 2024 |
We Want to Hear from You!At some point throughout the year, you should receive a satisfaction survey from us. The fourth quarter survey is being sent to the remainder of our employer groups this month. Your feedback and experience are valuable, and we want to learn from you. If your group has... |
November 19, 2024 |
December Wellbeing Tip: Self Care & Seasonal BluesWhile the holiday season can be a time of joy, it may bring added stress, anxiety, and depression for some people. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 9 in 10 (89%) of U.S. adults say that concerns such as financial pressure, family conflict, and... |
November 19, 2024 |
Rx News - Smart RxAssist is Now HelpScript!In July, we announced our partnership with Smart RxAssist to help maximize savings available from drug manufacturer assistance programs. This program provides financial relief to self-funded employer groups and decreases out-of-pocket costs for medical specialty drugs.... |
November 19, 2024 |
Rx News - Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Humira and Biosimilar Formulary Updates for 2025Biosimilars represent one of the biggest opportunities to improve access and affordability for our community. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield (Excellus BCBS) has advocated for the use of biosimilars since 2018 when we were the first standalone health plan to prefer a... |
November 19, 2024 |
Contract Reached with WellNow Urgent CareWe are pleased to announce that Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and WellNow Urgent Care have executed a new provider contract agreement. Starting on November 15, WellNow Urgent Care will be in-network. We want members to find the care they need if they are sick or injured.... |
November 14, 2024 |
Gag Clause Prohibition Attestation Under the Consolidated Appropriation ActThe gag clause prohibition under the Consolidate Appropriations Act (CAA) prohibits health plans from entering into contracts that restrict specific data and information that a plan can make available to another party. Plans must annually submit an attestation that they... |
November 12, 2024 |
2025 Individual Market PlansIf you have an employee who is not eligible for an Employer Group Plan, Medicare or COBRA, we are here to help connect them with Qualified Health Plans (metal level plans), stand-alone dental plans and NY State sponsored Safety Net coverage, including plans for children.... |
October 29, 2024 |
Medicare Recognizes Excellus BlueCross BlueShield For QualityThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced its 2025 quality ratings, and again this year recognized Excellus BlueCross BlueShield for its Medicare Advantage plans. This is the 12th consecutive year the health plan has ranked above average or higher for... |
October 29, 2024 |
New: Affordability PagesIncreasing costs and growing demands for medical care are leading to premium rate increases and higher out-of-pocket expenses for members and employers nationwide. It’s important for us to find solutions that prioritize the wellbeing of our groups while also addressing... |
October 29, 2024 |
November Is Diabetes Awareness MonthDiabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body turns food into blood sugar to use for energy. There are three types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, accounting for 90-95% of cases. According to the... |
October 29, 2024 |
Annual Renewal Request SubmissionsFor Groups that are submitting their annual renewal requests through the Annual Group Information Form (AGIF) Webtool, please ensure that you or your broker are selecting the correct Renewal Year for your submissions. The Webtool will auto populate with the 2025... |
October 29, 2024 |
Member Mailing NotificationDue to new requirements of Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, we are required to send an annual Notice of Nondiscrimination and Notice of Availability of Language Assistance Services to all members no later than 11/2/2024. This mailing is currently underway,... |
October 29, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 6 | How You Can Support Your Team with the Rise of Health Care Costs: Resources and Tools to Help Improve Quality of Care While Combating Costs.Chamber Series | Part 6 of 6 We’re back with Part 6 the final part in of our high-quality care and cost savings series. | View Part 1 to learn more about pharmacy saving programs. | View Part 2 to learn more about medical cost savings programs. | View... |
October 1, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 5 | How You Can Support Your Team with the Rise of Health Care Costs: The Importance of Preventive Care ProgramsChamber Series | Part 5 of 6 We’re back with Part 5 of our high-quality care and cost savings series. | View Part 1 to learn more about pharmacy saving programs. | View Part 2 to learn more about medical cost savings programs. | View Part 3 to learn... |
October 1, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 4 | How You Can Support Your Team with the Rise of Health Care Costs: Care Management Support For Members With Complex ConditionsChamber Series | Part 4 of 6 We’re back with Part 4 of our high-quality care and cost savings series. | View Part 1 to learn more about pharmacy saving programs. | View Part 2 to learn more about medical cost savings programs. | View Part 3 to learn... |
October 1, 2024 |
Provider Contract UpdatesAs you may have noticed, there has been an increase in discussions surrounding contract negotiations, both locally and nationally. Providers and hospitals are more frequently going public about these discussions, which may create uncertainty. It’s essential that we... |
September 26, 2024 |
Upcoming Member Webinar For Small Group Plans*Looking to educate your employees on the benefits, tools and resources they have available through their Small Group plan? Thursday, September 26 12:00 P.M. - 12:30 P.M. ET Online event for all small group members Encourage employees to register and attend this upcoming... |
September 23, 2024 |
October Is Breast Cancer Awareness MonthBreast cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States among people who were born female, after skin cancers. About one in eight women will have breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. While white women are more likely to develop breast cancer, Black... |
September 23, 2024 |
REMINDER: Medicare Part D Creditable CoverageAs part of the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA), employers and union groups offering prescription drug coverage must disclose to Medicare eligible individuals with prescription drug coverage under their plan, whether the coverage is creditable. Employer Group... |
September 23, 2024 |
Rx News - Lowering Costs And Protecting Employees With DiabetesOur model is built to bring all your benefits together, providing an integrated and holistic approach to health care by leveraging medical and pharmacy data. When medical and pharmacy teams are working collaboratively, it’s proven to be the best care, while driving costs... |
September 23, 2024 |
Rx News - Support For Rising Health Care Costs: Pharmacy ProgramsWe know the upward trend of health care costs is expected to continue, impacting employers and individuals alike. High prescription drug prices, increases in outpatient procedures, and more members needing high-cost hospital care are challenging health plans, employers,... |
September 23, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 3 | How You Can Support Your Team with the Rise of Health Care Costs: What You Need To Know About Premium RatesChamber Series | Part 3 of 6 We’re back with Part 3 in our series. | View Part 1 to learn more about pharmacy saving programs. | View Part 2 to learn more about medical cost savings programs. With Open Enrollment coming up this fall, we wanted... |
September 19, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 2 | How You Can Support Your Team with the Rise of Health Care Costs: Medical Cost Savings ProgramsChamber Series | Part 2 of 6 We’re back with Part 2 in our cost saving series. | View Part 1 to learn more about pharmacy saving programs. As a recap, we know the upward trend of health care costs is expected to continue, impacting employers and individuals alike.... |
September 19, 2024 |
Chamber Series Part 1 | How You Can Support Your Team With The Rise Of Health Care Costs: Pharmacy ProgramsChamber Series | Part 1 of 6 We know the upward trend of health care costs is expected to continue, impacting employers and individuals alike. High prescription drug prices, increases in outpatient procedures, and more members needing high-cost hospital care are... |
September 19, 2024 |
Small Group Rates And Plans for 2025 Are Now Available!2025 Plan Highlights*: Our 2025 plan updates are aimed at making care more accessible and affordable, helping members see the true value in their plan. And we understand things might look different year over year to achieve this experience for our members. Let’s take a... |
September 12, 2024 |
Large Group HMO & Medicare Supplement – NYS Prior Approval Of Rate ChangesOn July 2, 2024, an application was submitted requesting 2025 premium rate changes in accordance with New York state prior approval law. This rate application applies to Community Rated Large Group HMO. An application was submitted requesting 2025 premium rate changes for... |
August 28, 2024 |
Medicare Part D Creditable CoverageMedicare beneficiaries can receive subsidized prescription drug coverage through the Medicare Part D program. Beneficiaries who have other sources of drug coverage—through a current or former employer or union, for example—may choose not to enroll in Medicare Part D, if... |
August 28, 2024 |
Enterprise File Transfer Service UpdatesAs part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the highest standards of digital security, we are updating our encryption protocols in line with industry standards and best practices. These changes to our enterprise file transfer service MAY impact SOME groups. Impacted... |
August 28, 2024 |
Request For Missing Social Security NumbersUnder the Affordable Care Act, the Internal Revenue Service requires health insurers to request missing subscriber and dependent Social Security numbers from their members. In September, we will send Social Security number request letters to individuals who had health... |
August 28, 2024 |
The Gateway To Member BenefitsMany people are getting ready for fall, a new school year, and open enrollment, making it the perfect time to check out their online account and make sure they’re using their plan to the fullest. An online account is the gateway to customized member information based on... |
August 28, 2024 |
September Wellbeing Tip: Substance Use DisordersAccording to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, about 17% of people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder (being addicted to, overusing or misusing drugs or alcohol) in the past year. That’s one in six people! A substance use disorder is a disease (not a... |
August 28, 2024 |
Rx News - Preparing For The Biosimilar LandscapeAs new biosimilars enter the market, increased competition brings down the price of the biosimilar and reference product. As biosimilars continue to grow in use, it is important to understand what they are and their impact in the market. In our ongoing efforts to ensure... |
August 28, 2024 |
2024 Pharmacy Updates From Mona ChitreA Message from Mona Chitre As we look to the rest of the 2024 plan year, I wanted to take a moment to share all that has been happening in the pharmacy space and reiterate our mission to provide greater access to high-quality health care. As supporters of your business... |
August 15, 2024 |
Take Good Care Of Your People, And They’ll Help You Take Good Care Of Your BusinessIt’s a simple concept – and it’s why you want to provide great health coverage for your employees. Coverage that helps them live healthier lives. Coverage that helps make the entire experience easier for everyone. Coverage that takes affordability into account. That’s... |
July 26, 2024 |
Warby Parker Added To Vision NetworkTogether with our partner, Davis Vision, we are excited to announce the expansion of our vision network to include Warby Parker as of July 1, 2024. This enhancement has no premium rate impact. Members will enjoy full access to Warby Parker’s elevated shopping experience... |
July 26, 2024 |
August Wellness Topic: The Importance Of VaccinesMost of us probably don’t remember when people regularly died from smallpox or polio. There have been no cases of smallpox anywhere in the world since 1980. Polio has been eliminated in the United States because of vaccination, though it is still a threat in some other... |
July 26, 2024 |
Rx News - Site Of Care For Infusion Drug TherapyWe are continuously looking for ways to promote member convenience while lowering overall costs. The Site of Care (SOC) program provides outreach to patients receiving select infusion or injectable drugs at high-cost facilities and transitions these patients to home... |
July 26, 2024 |
2025 Large Group Product UpdatesWith a new year comes exciting new changes to bring groups and members even better coverage. Take a look at what’s in store for 2025. Here’s What’s New for 2025*: Reminder! ThriveWell℠ Introduced in 2024, ThriveWell is a digital home base dedicated to engaging teams... |
June 27, 2024 |
We Want To Hear From You!At some point throughout the year, you should receive a satisfaction survey from us. The second quarter survey is being sent to some of our employer groups this month. Your feedback and experience is valuable, and we want to learn from you. If you have not yet received... |
June 26, 2024 |
July Wellness Topic: The Benefits Of Physical ActivityExercise gives you energy. That may seem counterintuitive, but exercise boosts energy levels. Even occasional exercise improves your mental wellbeing, thinking and sleep and reduces anxiety and blood pressure. Regular exercise has even more benefits than an occasional... |
June 26, 2024 |
Rx News - Reduce Risk And Control Costs With Integrated Pharmacy Benefits Available To Your TeamExperience a more comprehensive approach to pharmacy care when your team has integrated medical and pharmacy. We now have Integrated Pharmacy Program Flyers so you can see every value-added and optional pharmacy program we have available for your business. Download the... |
June 26, 2024 |
Rx News - New! Pharmacy Concierge Program Video SeriesNow available! A new series of videos highlighting our Pharmacy Concierge Program. Mona Chitre, Chief Pharmacy Officer, and President Pharmacy Solutions Chapter 1: Why we created Pharmacy Concierge Chapter 2: What sets us apart with Pharmacy Concierge Steve Conrad,... |
June 26, 2024 |
Individual & Small Group – NYS Prior Approval Of Rate ChangesOn May 15, 2024, an application was submitted requesting 2025 premium rate changes in accordance with New York state prior approval law. This rate application applies to Community Rated Individual and Small Group products. The following products are included in this 2025... |
June 4, 2024 |
The Lifetime Healthcare Companies Announce Plans To Affiliate With CDPHPToday (May 22), we announced that The Lifetime Healthcare Companies (LTHC), the parent company of Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, plans to form an affiliation with CDPHP, one of New York’s leading not-for-profit health insurance companies. This affiliation is aimed at... |
May 22, 2024 |
Past Due: What To Do If You Missed The RxDC Deadline?We have received questions from groups about what to do if they did not complete the RxDC online form by the due date of April 12. If a group missed the deadline, they should report the information directly to CMS in HIOS (or have another reporting entity report it for... |
May 17, 2024 |
Working To Deliver A Real Time Enrollment ExperienceEnhancements are coming soon to our online “Enroll & Update” tool that will allow us to process many of your transactions in real time. You’ll begin seeing these changes within the next month. For example: When making “Enroll a New Member” transactions, a... |
May 17, 2024 |
