Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to find answers to common billing, claim forms and other questions? Browse our frequently asked questions to find answers.

Claims and Billing Questions

Where do I file a claim for medical care received outside the United States?

If you are eligible for the Federal Employee Program (your member ID starts with the letter R immediately followed by numbers), your overseas claim form and instructions can be found at the Overseas Assistance Center.

If you are eligible for the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global™ Core program, enter the first three letters or numbers of your member ID to access your international claim form and instructions.

Otherwise, contact your Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) company for assistance.

Whom do I contact if I have billing questions, or a claim has been rejected?

Contact your local BCBS company for details regarding billing.

Be sure to have your account number, paperwork and any important information such as dates or doctor references handy when you call.

Insurance Basics

What is a Primary Care Physician (PCP)?

A physician or other medical professional who serves as a group member's first contact with a company's health care system. Also known as a primary care provider, personal care physician or personal care provider.

What is an HMO?

HMO stands for Health Maintenance Organization, a health care system that assumes or shares both the financial and delivery risks associated with providing comprehensive medical services to a voluntarily enrolled population in a particular geographic area, usually in return for a fixed, prepaid fee.

For more insurance terms and definitions, please see our Glossary.

What is a PPO?

A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) is an arrangement designed to supply health care services at a discount by providing incentives for members to use designated health providers (who contract with the PPO at a discount), but which also provides coverage for services rendered by health care providers who are not part of the PPO network.

My Coverage and Benefits

I was denied coverage, a claim or received an erroneous charge on my explanation of benefits (EOB). Whom do I contact?

To access specific information about your coverage and claims related to your individual or group health insurance, please contact the customer service number on the back of your member card. Otherwise, you can find your local BCBS company online. BCBS.com does not maintain member information.

I am a member, but I do not see where I can log in on this website. Where do I find access to my member benefits, coverage, etc.?

BCBS.com is the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) website. BCBSA does not have access to member information. We regulate the brand and licenses to all BCBS local companies.

To access specific information about your coverage, EOBs, prescriptions, paying a bill or any other questions related to your individual or group health insurance, please contact the customer service number on the back of your member card. You can also find your local BCBS company on BCBS.com.

Purchasing Insurance

How can I find information about coverage that is supplemental to Medicare?

There are lots of Medicare choices, including Medicare+Choice, medical savings accounts and private fee-for-service plans. For plans available to you, use our Medicare guide. You can also view a listing of BCBS companies who participate in Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug choices. Contact your local BCBS company representative for details regarding claims or coverage. Not sure which BCBS company you belong to? You can find out by typing your home or work ZIP code in our Plan Finder.

How can I get information on purchasing health insurance?

Learn about obtaining health insurance coverage for yourself, your family or a group. You may also find more information about insurance for individuals and families and Medicare.