What is the difference between Blue Cross Standard and Basic?
Asked by: Dr. Bethel Bailey V | Last update: January 23, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (29 votes)
What is the basic benefit plan?
The Basic Benefit Plan is a monthly annuity benefit, which is calculated as: the value of 1% of the average of your highest basic pay over three years (“high-3 average pay”), multiplied by your years of federal service. The plan includes survivor and disability benefits.
What is the difference between Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and Regular Blue Cross Blue Shield?
Since Anthem licenses with Blue Cross Blue Shield, it only offers its own health insurance brands in certain states, including California, New York, and a dozen more. If you don't live in a state with Anthem health insurance, you may want to search for your own regional Blue Cross Blue Shield regional company.
Is Blue Cross Basic a PPO?
The Basic plan from BC Life & Health is a PPO that covers you for hospital care and other expensive health services.
How do I know what kind of Blue Cross insurance I have?
If you forget or aren't sure what type of health insurance plan you have (like an HMO or PPO), you can find out on your BCBS ID card. If you have an HMO, your card may also list the physician or group you've selected for primary care.
Is Blue Cross Blue Shield Really the Best Plan for You as a Federal Employee?
How many types of Blue Cross Blue Shield are there?
Blue Cross Blue Shield is NOT a Single Health Insurance Company. Rather, There are 36 Different Blue Cross Blue Shield Companies that are Part of as Association. Anthem is the Largest of all the Blue Cross Companies.
What is the difference between a PPO and a HMO?
HMOs (health maintenance organizations) are typically cheaper than PPOs, but they tend to have smaller networks. You need to see your primary care physician before getting a referral to a specialist. PPOs (preferred provider organizations) are usually more expensive.
What are the two most common health insurance plans?
Before choosing a health insurance policy for yourself, your family, or your employees, you must know what types are available. Some popular health insurance policy options are: Preferred provider organization (PPO) plans. Health maintenance organization (HMO) plans.
Which service is provided as part of BCBS Basic Coverage?
Final answer: BCBS basic coverage includes essential health benefits like prescription drugs, but services such as dental and hearing aids are typically not covered. Therefore, option (a) Prescription drugs is correct.
How much does a CT scan cost with Blue Cross Blue Shield?
How much does a CT scan cost with Blue Cross Blue Shield? Insurers can decide to cover a CT scan based on a patient's condition, where the scan takes place and how many scans are needed. You can expect Blue Cross Blue Shield to pick up some of the cost, leaving you to pay between $400 and $700.
Is Blue Cross cheaper than Blue Shield?
Depending on your region, the cheapest California health plan might be offered by Anthem Blue Cross or by Blue Shield of California. However, the rates tend to be about the same. The big difference is network. Which plan offers the most doctors, hospitals and medical provider networks?
What is Anthem Blue Cross now called?
As of January 1, 2024, the Empire BlueCross BlueShield and Empire BlueCross names are Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and Anthem Blue Cross. This will not impact your coverage, access to care, or level of support.
What is a basic benefits package?
Employers provide a range of benefits designed to support their employees' health, financial stability, and personal growth. These packages typically include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off (PTO) , and other perks.
What is the difference between the BCBS Federal employee Program Basic and Standard?
With FEP Blue Basic, you can enjoy no deductible with care from in-network providers. FEP Blue Standard gives you the flexibility to receive care both in and out-of-network.
How do I know what type of Blue Cross Blue Shield plan I have?
Various logos may be displayed on member ID cards for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Plans in the United States and International Licensees licensed through BCBSA. Member ID cards may include one of the logos below that identify the type of coverage the member has and/or indicate the provider's reimbursement level.
Is Blue Shield and Blue Cross Blue Shield the same?
In 1982, Blue Shield merged with The Blue Cross Association to form the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBS). Prior to 1986, organizations administering BCBS were tax exempt under 501(c)(4) as social welfare plans.
Do copays count towards deductible?
No. Copays and coinsurance don't count toward your deductible. Only the amount you pay for health care services (like the medical bill you receive) count toward your plan's deductible.
Do doctors prefer HMO or PPO?
HMO plans might involve more bureaucracy and can limit doctors' ability to practice medicine as they see fit due to stricter guidelines on treatment protocols. So just as with patients, providers who prefer a greater degree of flexibility tend to prefer PPO plans.
What are 2 things typically covered by basic health insurance?
Most health insurance in California covers a wide range of basic services, including (also known as Essential Health Benefits): Hospital care. Visits to a primary care doctor and specialists. Outpatient procedures, like surgery.
Is Blue Shield PPO or HMO better?
If it's important to you to see out-of-network doctors without referrals, a PPO may be right for you. If you'd rather minimize your health care costs and don't mind using only in-network providers, an HMO may be the way to go.
What is a disadvantage of a PPO plan?
In general, PPO plans tend to be more expensive than an HMO plan. Your monthly premium will be higher and you will have to meet your deductible before your health insurer starts paying. You will also have to pay more out-of-pocket if you visit a provider who is not part of your PPO network.
Is Blue Cross Blue Shield a PPO?
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
However, BCBS still pays more to in-network providers than out-of-network providers. People who are part of a PPO do not need a physician's referral to consult with a specialist. PPOs also usually offer drug coverage. Learn about Medicare referrals.