Anthem vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance

Anthem vs. Blue Cross Blue Shield: What You Need to Know

In 2004, WellPoint Health Networks Inc and Anthem, Inc. merged and became the nation’s leading health benefits company. In December 2014 WellPoint Inc. changed its corporate name to Anthem, Inc. The Anthem companies offer health care plans and related services like dental, vision, behavioral health, life insurance and disability insurance benefits as well as long-term care insurance and flexible spending accounts. Anthem has about 40 million members and is ranked 33rd on the Fortune 500.

Blue Cross was formed in 1929 as a partnership between Baylor University Hospital and its patients who were struggling financially. The administrators of the hospital wanted to make healthcare more affordable for some patients, many of whom were Dallas public school educators on restricted budgets. The initial payment plan set up by Baylor University Hospital consisted of a 50-cent prepay each month for up to 21 days of hospitalization per year. The success of the program lead to enrollment by employees in other professions across Dallas.

To learn more about each company, you can check out the Anthem Overview and Blue Cross Blue Shield Overview.

What is Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Rating?

Which health insurance company is better? We've made it easy to compare companies side by side. See how Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield ranked among the industry ratings.

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Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield Mobile Apps Options

The Anthem Medicaid app is only available to policyholders in 5 states. Indiana, Kentucky, Nevada, Wisconsin, and Virginia. The app allows users to find doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies, view claims, pay your bill, and manage your prescriptions.

Each State has its own Blue Cross Blue Shield app on iTunes and GooglePlay. The app allows users to find doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies, view claims, pay bill, and manage prescriptions.

Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield Enrollment Process

Anthem

Anthem is available through the health insurance marketplace or you can get several free quotes here.  Each state has their own marketplace. If you’re not sure where to begin, visit https://www.healthcare.gov/.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Blue Cross Blue Shield is available through participating employers for group insurance. You can also buy an individual or family plan directly from Blue Cross Blue Shield, the health insurance marketplace or you can get several free quotes here.

You can also contact 888.630.2583 to learn more about Blue Cross Blue Shield options for individuals and families or find a local BCBS company by visiting here.

How to File a Claim with Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance

Anthem

Make sure you use the claim form from your benefit plan because each type is different. You’ll need to get procedures codes from your doctor’s office. File the paperwork within the time limit. Include pre-approval if it’s needed.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

If you use a network doctor or hospital, your claims will be submitted by that provider. If you see an out-of-network provider, you need to submit the claim yourself. You must submit a completed claim form or alternative documentation via fax or mailing address. As an alternative to sending a claim form, supply a description of services, a bill of charges from the provider and any medical documents you received from your provider.

For medical and/or dental services in the U.S. Puerto Rico or the U.S Virgin Islands, Use these claim forms. For anywhere else or on a cruise ship outside the U.S. use the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core international claim forms. For prescriptions inside or outside the U.S. or U.S. territories: Use these claim forms.

Common Questions About Blue Cross Blue Shield and Anthem Insurance

Anthem

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Anthem and Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance Contact Info