Compare Anthem Blue Shield To Blue Cross Blue Shield California
It’s easy to see why people might believe Anthem Blue Shield and Blue Cross Blue Shield California are similar plans. Their names are similar, but when you have a choice to make for insurance, you might find yourself wondering, “What is the difference between Blue Cross and Blue Shield California?”
Anthem Blue Cross is a for-profit provider with benefits like lower monthly premiums and out-of-state coverage. On the flip side, Blue Shield California has better prescription coverage and added wellness benefits. They are also a nonprofit organization that reinvests in the health of California communities.
When you’re looking for mental health help or addiction treatment at a facility like South Shores, the last thing that you want to do is spend precious moments trying to figure out health insurance.
This guide from South Shores Recovery will break down key differences between these two health plans to make it easy. And, if you still have questions about getting treatment covered, call us directly (and confidentially) for more help at any time.
A Closer Look at Anthem Blue Cross
Anthem Blue Cross is a for-profit health insurance provider that functions under Elevance Health, formerly Anthem, Inc. Even though Blue Cross is part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, it’s a separate entity from Blue Shield of California. Plans are going to vary drastically.
Some benefits of Anthem Blue Cross that clients appreciate come from the BlueCard program, which offers strong out-of-state coverage and operates as a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) network. It stands out as the most practical choice for Californians who prioritize broader provider access, particularly if you enjoy traveling or live near the state’s borders.
Anthem Blue Cross Health Plans
Anthem offers several plans, including Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers. Their lower monthly cost is a nice perk, but there are more restrictions on coverage for prescription drugs.
Still, Anthem’s plans often appeal to individuals and families seeking more affordable monthly costs and expanded provider access across the country.
A Closer Look at Blue Shield California
The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association was founded in 1939 as a nonprofit mutual benefit corporation. The company lost its California state tax-exempt status in 2014, but Blue Shield remains committed to its mission. They prioritize community health and reinvesting into California’s communities.
Blue Shield offers covered treatment through in-state providers, but they work with 65,000 physicians and specialists, and 340 hospitals across California. There are also other perks, making it a good choice if you prioritize getting care in California.
Blue Shield Health Plans
Blue Shield also offers individual and family plans using metal tiers. It’s known for having better prescription benefits, something important for members with ongoing medication needs.
Some plans also feature value-added services such as wellness discounts, virtual care options, and behavioral health resources, aligning with its nonprofit mission to improve overall health access.
Which Offers a More Affordable Price?
Anthem Blue Cross generally offers lower monthly premiums compared to Blue Shield. For example, an Anthem Silver plan may cost about $68 less per month than a similar plan from Blue Shield.
At first glance, this makes Anthem a compelling choice for budget-conscious families. You’ll also want to look at out-of-pocket costs and coverage for the health care that you need most. Premiums aren’t the only factor in determining which plan is most cost-effective for your specific needs.
It is worth noting that both providers can be found as part of the Covered California ACA insurance marketplace.
Which Offers High-Quality Health Care?
Members who use Blue Shield California and Anthem Blue Cross are both happy. It’s less about who offers better health care, and more about which company meets your needs. If you need a wider provider network or out-of-state coverage, Blue cross is the better choice.
For clients who need ongoing prescription medication, Blue Cross Blue Shield is going to be the better choice for savings.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your preferences for in-state vs. out-of-state care, prescription needs, and which doctors or hospitals you prefer.
Which Offers Better Coverage for Addiction Treatment?
Under federal law, insurance providers must offer treatment for substance use. Both Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield California have good coverage, but the benefits are going to change depending on your coverage levels.
Many types of treatment are covered under Blue Cross, including detox, residential rehab, mental health counseling, and intensive outpatient programs. They also cover specialty programs like dual diagnosis.
Blue Shield of California also offers comprehensive coverage for drug and alcohol rehab, with a strong in-state provider network. As a nonprofit, Blue Shield often prioritizes whole-person care, an approach that we appreciate at South Shores.
Integrating mental health and substance abuse support through its network of covered therapists, treatment centers, specialists, and case management programs leads to better treatment outcomes. Their plans often include access to telehealth mental health visits, ideal for ongoing therapy after leaving inpatient treatment.
Will I Have a Copay for Rehab?
The cost of inpatient or outpatient rehab is going to change based on what your plan offers. If you usually have low costs for hospital stays, then inpatient rehab might be surprisingly affordable.
The good news is that there are tons of options if you’re worried about copays associated with rehab. Local grants, personal loans, payment plans, and SAMHSA grants are just some options that can be discussed.
We can also tailor your treatment plan to your needs, opting for more affordable intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization programs when inpatient isn’t an option.
Is Treatment Covered at South Shores Recovery?
South Shores is committed to healing California’s community, which is why we work with many insurance providers to make treatment accessible to the people who need it most. The easiest way to find out about coverage and whether we are in-network for your plan is to call us directly.
We can verify your insurance in minutes over the phone, so you can get the help that you need sooner.
Call South Shores to Take the Guesswork Out of Insurance Today
At South Shores Recovery, we’ll work with you to help you access better quality care without the hassle. Give us a call today.
Our caring team will pick up the phone day or night to answer your questions, verify your insurance, and help you take the next steps toward a better life sooner.
877-919-8833
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