The start of a new year also means a new year of health insurance coverage. Many plans begin coverage Jan. 1. Start the new year by making the most of your health plan. 

You may not need a new ID card.

Your ID card helps identify you and your health plan. You will only get an ID card if your information changed from the year before. Only the subscriber’s name will be on the cards for the family. 

During your first 2024 visit, make sure your doctor and pharmacy have the most updated information for you. Many health care providers will automatically ask if your information has changed. If not, be proactive and ask them to confirm what’s on file for you. If a claim gets filed using outdated information, it can cause some real headaches for both you and the provider.   

You can always access your ID card through the My Health Toolkit^® app on your mobile device or computer.

Call the number on your ID card. 

Don’t use an online search if you need to reach us by phone. The phone number on the back of your ID card will help you reach the specific customer service team for your plan. If you call a general number, you may need to be transferred to reach the correct team. 

There’s an app for that. 

The My Health Toolkit app can be a lifesaver when it comes to using your health plan. In fact, answers to many of our frequently asked questions can be found through the app. 

Want to find your Explanation of Benefits (EOB)? It is on the app. Watch this short video to find out how your doctor's visit becomes an EOB.

It is important to understand your deductible and out-of-pocket amounts. You can find this on the app. Here's a quick explanation of what deductible means.

Need to find a doctor that is in network? Logging into My Health Toolkit will help you locate a doctor that is in network for your plan. 

Not sure if your copay for doctor’s visits has changed? Check the app. Much of the information you need about your plan can be found online without having to call. 

Know what changed with prescriptions. 

The start of a new year can mean changes to your plan, including prescription drug changes. We update what your plan covers and how much you will pay when new generic drugs and alternative medications become available. 

You should have received a letter from BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina earlier in the year if you have prescription drug coverage through BlueCross and we think you may be affected by a change. This letter would include important steps you need to take. 

Discuss any changes with your doctor. You should have this conversation with your doctor before refilling the prescription in the new year.

Be prepared for travel.  

If you’re planning a trip in the new year, know that BlueCross can help you when you travel, no matter the type of insurance you have.

Download the app before traveling, refill prescriptions and understand the different types of coverage. 

Understand your coverage. 

It is important to understand your individual plan every year. BlueCross offers a variety of plans. Knowing which plan you have and what is covered or included is important. 

• What is your copay? It’s the fixed amount for a covered service you pay to the provider before receiving the service. 
• What is your deductible for the year? It’s the amount you pay toward costs of covered health care services each year before your health insurance begins to pay its part. 
• What is your coinsurance? It’s the percentage you pay when you and your health insurance split the bill for a health care service.
• What doctors are in network? You can find the physician list or provider directory in your My Health Toolkit account.

If you’re pregnant, notify BlueCross as soon as you can. If you add a dependent to your plan, do it as soon as possible. 

Know what is free. 

There are a few things free with some BlueCross plans. One of the most common of these is a flu shot. Your health plan may have others, such as a yearly physical. You can find details for what is included in your plan on My Health Toolkit. Explore plan perks.

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