Blogs

5 Reasons a Claim May Be Denied

2026-07-16T15:21:00Z

Believe it or not, there are only a handful of reasons that may lead to a health care service not getting approved or a claim not being paid. They fall into these five buckets. The claim has errors. Minor data errors are the most common culprit...(read more)

What to Do if Your Claim Is Not Approved

2026-07-16T14:40:00Z

Nurse care manager Lenzy Mixon got a call from a member about a large bill he received for a stay at a skilled nursing facility. He checked with his doctor, who assured him the stay had been pre-approved by his health plan. His next call was to us. ...(read more)

Staying In-Network Can Help Cut Costs

2026-07-08T15:10:00Z

When you shop, you probably keep an eye on costs. You want to buy the things you need at a fair price. What about when you’re shopping for health care? Using providers in your health plan’s network can help you save money. A network inclu...(read more)

Our Staff Can Help You Better Manage Your Care

2026-07-08T11:07:00Z

This article is intended for HMO members enrolled in an employer health insurance plan. We know you may have questions about your medical condition and how best to coordinate your care. Having access to utilization management (UM) staff can help you ...(read more)

Keep Health Issues in Check with Telehealth Visits

2026-07-08T09:15:00Z

Does your health plan offer telehealth visits with doctors in your plan’s network? Now's a good time to check. It may be just what you need to stay on top of your health. During the pandemic, more health care facilities turned to telehealth vi...(read more)

Get Fit and Save in August

2026-07-06T08:17:00Z

Well onTarget, the Fitness Program and Blue PointsSM are not available to all members. Check your online account information or ask your benefits administrator to see if you have these benefits. If you’re looking to stay in shape, or get back i...(read more)

Is an HMO Plan Right for You?

2026-06-29T23:17:14Z

Open enrollment is a good time to take a fresh look at your health plan choices. One option you may see is a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois HMO plan. HMO plans offer high-value health benefits at the lowest total cost of care compared to othe...(read more)

Having Trouble Setting Up Your Premium Payments?

2026-06-29T16:49:31Z

We encourage members to make payments by electronic funds transfer and to set up monthly premium payments using Auto Bill Pay electronic funds transfers. When you’re first getting started, using electronic funds transfer helps us process your e...(read more)

Preventive Care or Medical Care? Learn the Difference

2026-06-08T21:44:00Z

Many people may not know that there are two types of care you can receive when you go to the doctor — preventive care and medical care. The type of care is different, and your costs may be different, too. Medical Care vs. Preventive Care Think...(read more)

What Are Your Rights and Responsibilities as an HMO Member?

2026-06-08T19:39:00Z

This article is intended for HMO members enrolled in an employer health insurance plan. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois respects and honors your rights. In return, we ask that you know and honor your responsibilities, too. To learn how you can...(read more)

Save Money on Health and Fitness Products with Blue365

2026-06-08T15:56:00Z

If you’re looking for some great discounts on health-related products and services, check out the Blue365® program. It’s just one more advantage of being a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois member. You and your covered family me...(read more)

Traveler’s Checklist: Protect Your Health While You Travel

2026-05-21T14:31:00Z

Vacation sounds good right about now. And whatever kind of vacation you like, there’s one thing that makes it go better – planning. Planning helps your road trip skip the bumps in the road. Planning helps you avoid turbulence, even once y...(read more)

Find a Doctor Who's a Good Fit for You

2026-05-04T18:41:00Z

Sometimes you know it’s time for a change. But what if that change involves finding a new primary care doctor? Maybe you’ve moved, and it’s a long drive to your current doctor. Perhaps you've had changes in your health or lifestyle....(read more)

Men, Make Your Health a Priority

2026-05-04T10:51:00Z

You’re a healthy guy. You eat right and exercise. You’ve never even had a cavity. So you may think it’s no big deal to skip an annual wellness check. But not so fast. Preventive screenings are important for your health. Screenings h...(read more)

BCBSIL HMO Health Management Programs May Be Right for You

2026-05-04T10:12:00Z

This article is intended for HMO members enrolled in an employer health insurance plan. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois HMO plans offer Population Health Management Programs to help you take care of your health. Look at the programs offered be...(read more)