News Archive
All News
| Title | Issued Date |
|---|---|
Connecting More Aspects Of Your Employees' WellbeingThis is Synchronized Health™. At Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, we believe that guiding your employees to proper care means looking at all aspects of their wellbeing and meeting them where they are. That’s why we take an approach to helping people lead healthier lives... |
November 20, 2020 |
Medicare Advantage Recognized For QualityThe federal government’s latest quality ratings have awarded the Medicare Advantage programs from Excellus BCBS with some of the highest ratings in the state. Medicare awarded Excellus BCBS with 4.5 stars out of a possible 5-star rating for its Medicare Blue Choice HMO... |
November 20, 2020 |
New Group Bill Pay Features - What You Need To KnowAs we shared in October, as a result of the feedback provided by both brokers and employer groups, we’re improving our online bill pay features and invoices, so they are easier to use. In mid-January 2021, we will launch an improved online invoice and payment feature... |
December 18, 2020 |
Authorization Required To Pay Out-Of-Network Dentists DirectlyEffective January 1, 2021, dental members will have the option to choose how they want to provide payment to out-of-network dental providers. They can choose to assign payment directly to their dentist or for payment to go directly to the member. In order to assign... |
December 18, 2020 |
Our Wellframe® Toolkit Helps Provide Members With Continuous Care—Right At Their FingertipsAvailable to most Excellus BCBS members, the Wellframe® App provides instant access to a dedicated care manager, dieticians, nurses, and other health care professionals to help members meet their health and wellness goals. And with our Wellframe® Toolkit, you... |
October 29, 2019 |
Q2 Small Group Rates & Brochures Available on Blue on DemandUse Blue on Demand to view our SimplyBlue Plus medical plan options, rates and enrollment forms for small businesses of 100 or fewer full-time equivalent employees: Access Blue on Demand Print versions of the 2020 Excellus SimplyBlue Plus Designs At-A-Glance... |
January 29, 2020 |
Finding Coverage During Job LossFinding Coverage During Job Loss We’re all facing an uncertain future, but for many employer groups this is a particularly anxious time. We have resources for groups and members, including those members who may be facing job loss and the loss of their... |
April 15, 2020 |
Special Enrollment Period Extended to June 15The Special Enrollment Period for enrolling in Qualified Health Plans has been extended through June 15, 2020. Individuals can enroll between May 16 and June 15, and their coverage will begin June 1, or July 1. Our customer care advocates can assist with any questions on... |
June 2, 2020 |
Helpful Guidelines As New York Goes Back to WorkAs more businesses, schools and other organizations continue to reopen, reminding everyone of important safety measures is more important than ever. That’s why we’ve pulled together a toolkit with resources to help you provide a safer and healthier work environment. ... |
August 27, 2020 |
Flu Prevention is More Important Than Ever This YearThe flu is a contagious respiratory disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. Because of COVID-19, it’s even more important to do everything you can to keep yourself and your family healthy this flu season. Our Flu Toolkit can help. It includes: ... |
September 29, 2020 |
New Individual Medicare Toolkit Now AvailableWith many people continuing to work past age 65, employees are turning to their employers for guidance when making important decisions about their health insurance. The right advice may save employees money by avoiding lifetime late Medicare enrollment penalties. We’re... |
October 30, 2020 |
The Power To Quit SmokingBeginning January 1, 2021, smoking cessation support will be provided through our Wellframe app. Members have access to a comprehensive program that includes program modules, videos, and articles to support them on their journey to quit smoking. And they can access all... |
December 18, 2020 |
COVID-19-Related Exceptions For Blue Healthy DollarsDue to Covid-19, the reimbursement criteria will be expanded to allow reimbursement for the following new items: At-home online workout subscriptions (i.e., Daily Burn, Beach Body, etc.) At-home fitness equipment (i.e., dumbbells, Peloton bikes, ellipticals, etc.) ... |
December 18, 2020 |
Our Best Wishes For A Healthy Holiday SeasonAs we come to the end of an historic year, we want you to know how truly grateful we are for your business. Entering 2021 amid a global health crisis will continue to be a challenge for everyone. Please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands and social distance, so... |
December 18, 2020 |
Stay Safe. Spread Joy.Though this holiday season may look different than what we’re used to, we’d like to encourage you to celebrate the things we can do. Sending cards. Keeping in touch with friends and family. Virtual gatherings. Learning to cook something new. Having a snowman contest. ... |
December 18, 2020 |
Updated Microsite And New COVID-19 ResourcesKeeping you informed throughout this global pandemic is one of our top priorities. Earlier this year, we launched a dedicated COVID-19 Resource Website: ExcellusBCBS.com/covid19. We are closely monitoring COVID-19 and vaccine developments and this website has a... |
December 18, 2020 |
2021 Large & Small Group Product Updates2020 was a challenging year in ways we’ve never experienced before. Financial solvency remains a real concern and, through it all, businesses are seeking new ways to support and protect the health and wellbeing of one of your biggest assets: your employees. Excellus BCBS... |
January 8, 2021 |
Update On Pre-AuthorizationsFor fully insured employer group plan members, pre-authorization is waived beginning on December 23, 2020 through February 21, 2021 for scheduled inpatient surgeries, inpatient mental health services, hospital admissions, inpatient rehabilitation, in-network home health... |
January 28, 2021 |
Small Group Dental Rates Now Available For All QuartersNew in 2021, Small Groups can align their medical and dental plan years. Rates for all effective dates in 2021 are now available on Blue on Demand. This includes the following products: Dental Blue Options SimplyBlue Plus Dental Be sure to note, a new section has... |
January 28, 2021 |
Revised Guidelines For ExerciseRewardsExcellus BCBS members can now earn ExerciseRewards for at-home workouts through the end of 2021. We are waiving our standard guidelines for this program due to continued gym closures, mask mandates, and other requirements, as a result of the ongoing pandemic. Members are... |
January 28, 2021 |
In A Year Like No Other... A COMPREHENSIVE RESPONSE LIKE NO OTHERAs the COVID-19 crisis escalated through 2020, we worked (and continue to work) relentlessly to protect and serve our members, partners and communities during this critical time of need. We are working to ensure that members have access to the care they need and are... |
January 28, 2021 |
Tax Form 1095-BHealth insurers—including Excellus BCBS—are no longer mailing tax form 1095-B to members. Because taxpayers are not required to include the form when filing their taxes, the IRS no longer requires us to mail the form. Members can still download the form or request it by... |
January 28, 2021 |
Relief Provided For Flexible Spending Account Plans In Stimulus BillOn December 27, 2020, the President signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2021. This new law provides relief options related to Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Employers can choose to adopt any of these provisions or to keep their plan the same. Optional... |
January 28, 2021 |
COVID-19 Vaccine CoverageBy mid-2021, it is believed that FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines will be available to the general public. Once available, under state and federal mandate, vaccines will be provided at no cost* to our members during the public health emergency. Key facts about COVID-19... |
January 28, 2021 |
Your Employees Have Questions; We Have AnswersCOVID-19 has dominated every aspect of our lives for nearly a year. While the approval—and pending approval—of new vaccines offers hope, they also raise many questions. Is a vaccine that was created so quickly actually safe? Can I stop wearing a mask if I receive the... |
February 17, 2021 |
March Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness MonthDid you know one in 20 people develops colon cancer in their lifetime? The good news is Colon Cancer can often be prevented through regular screenings and screening is recommended for adults ages 50-75. Learn more by downloading and sharing this poster. Poster - Facts... |
February 26, 2021 |
Call Out COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud With NYS HotlineNew York State has established a hotline that anyone can call to report suspected COVID-19 vaccine-related fraud or scams. Remember, it’s a red flag if anyone is promising individuals the vaccine in exchange for payment. To make a report, please direct individuals to... |
February 26, 2021 |
Small Group Dental Changes To Minimum Enrollment Requirements For Orthodontic CoverageAny New Dental groups looking to obtain dental coverage that includes Class IV Ortho coverage will only be required to have 5 enrolled as opposed to the 10 previously required. Additionally, any Existing Dental groups that are looking to align their Medical and Dental... |
February 26, 2021 |
We’re Here To Help You Navigate The Individual MarketThe Open Enrollment Period for uninsured individuals has been extended to May 15, for qualified health plans or stand-alone dental. In addition, we continue to be here to support you and help with the many questions you may have about free or low-cost health insurance... |
February 26, 2021 |
Helpful Information For Advance Care PlanningApril 16th is National Healthcare Decision Day (NHDD). Per the CDC, whether someone is facing an acute illness, a long-term chronic or a terminal illness, Advanced Care Planning can help alleviate unnecessary suffering, improve quality of life and provide a better... |
March 31, 2021 |
Tools To Help Members Make The Most Of Their Health PlanIt’s easier than ever for your employees to navigate and use their high deductible health plans (HDHP). Did you know? Groups and employees new to HDHP take time to transition, and satisfaction is often lower the first year. An online member account, paired with a health... |
March 31, 2021 |
MDLIVE PartnershipExcellus BlueCross BlueShield partners with MDLIVE for its telemedicine services. We are aware that Evernorth has entered into an agreement to acquire MDLIVE and is expected to complete the acquisition in second quarter 2021. At this time, Excellus BCBS... |
March 31, 2021 |
Important Information to Qualify for Small Group Health PlansIn order to comply with the Affordable Care Act, an employer must have at least one common-law employee enrolled to qualify as a group health plan. Businesses that do not have any common-law employees enrolled are no longer eligible for a group health plan and must... |
April 4, 2018 |
Prepare Your Employees for Open Enrollment With Online AccountsIf your employees haven't done so already, now is the perfect time to register for an online account on our website. Many questions they have—especially as we enter into open enrollment—can be answered by accessing their personalized information online. This is... |
October 3, 2018 |
Healthy New York Program UpdatesThe following article provides information on Healthy New York from the NYS Department of Financial Services: Excellus BCBS requires employees to work a minimum of 20 hours per week to be eligible for coverage. Effective immediately, this requirement will also apply to... |
June 4, 2018 |
Changes To Member ID Cards Coming In AprilIn December, the NYS Department of Financial Services (DFS) issued new minimum standards for the content on health insurance identification cards. Changes apply to MEDICAL and MEDICAL/PHARMACY IDENTIFICATION CARDS ONLY (changes will not apply to dental only and pharmacy... |
March 31, 2021 |
May Is Mental Health Awareness MonthEach year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Now—more than a year into a global pandemic—isolation, anxiety, and loneliness have made a difficult time more challenging for many people. Learn more about how to fight the stigma of mental... |
April 30, 2021 |
Overview Of The Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA), 2021The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, contains multiple provisions that will affect group health plans and the health care system, overall. The timeline to implement these provisions is an aggressive one with many effective dates of January 1, 2022. Mental Health... |
April 30, 2021 |
Excellus BCBS Website Now Supports EdgeOur website now officially supports the Edge browser and will no longer be supporting Internet Explorer, since it is being retired by Microsoft. Please change to either Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Edge or Chrome continue to be supported and are more secure. Browser... |
May 27, 2021 |
24/7 Access With Our Mobile AppRemember, our mobile app offers members 24/7 access to their health plan. They can view member cards, find participating doctors, view plan benefits and claims, at home or on the go. Creating an account is easy with a quick scan of their member card or by typing their... |
May 27, 2021 |
Our Pandemic Response And Support For Pharmacy MembersOur number one priority is to always provide our members with high-quality, low-cost care. The importance of doing this came to the forefront at the height of the pandemic; especially when the search for therapies to treat COVID-19 were at a peak. Early in the pandemic,... |
May 27, 2021 |
Individual & Small Group – NYS Prior Approval Of Rate ChangesOn May 12, 2021 an application was submitted requesting 2022 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 2022... |
May 27, 2021 |
Our Opioid Management StrategyOver 81,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States between May 2019 and May 2020. This is the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in a 12-month period. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose deaths were already... |
June 30, 2021 |
Free Mobile Health SupportCaring for your employees isn’t something you only do from 9 to 5. In this 24/7 world we’re helping you help employees manage their health every day with the Wellframe® app. It’s an easy way for our dedicated team of health care professionals to give confidential,... |
June 30, 2021 |
New Feature Added To Enroll & UpdateBased on feedback provided by our employers, we have added a filtering feature to Enroll & Update. Login to the employer portal → Click on Enroll & Update. Click on View Member Roster Filter by package status: Active, Terminated, Pending, All View a... |
June 30, 2021 |
Premium Payment ReminderReminder, per contract, there is a 30-day grace period to make their premium payment. If payment is not received within the 30-day grace period, we will initiate the termination process. As a reminder, the first premium payment must be made prior to the effective date of... |
June 30, 2021 |
2022 Large Group Product UpdatesWe know that health and wellbeing have taken on new meaning and significance over the past year. That’s why we’re bringing you more ways to get the most from your benefits, all backed by a local, caring team and more than 85 years of strength and stability. Here’s What’s... |
August 2, 2021 |
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 30, 2021 |
Help Protect Employees From The FluEvery flu season is different, and influenza infection can affect people differently. Make plans to get vaccinated early in fall before flu season begins. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people get a flu vaccine by the end of October. ... |
August 30, 2021 |
Excellus BCBS Addresses Health Disparities In Upstate New York With New Health Equity AwardsRecognizing structural racism as a driving force of health inequities and a barrier to its goal of health equity, Excellus BCBS invites nonprofit organizations to apply for Health Equity Awards of up to $30,000 each to help fund health and wellness programs that address... |
August 30, 2021 |
