Stay informed about programs, policies, and announcements issued this year by Blue Shield of California and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan.
Recent announcements for Blue Shield Promise providers
Recent announcements for Blue Shield providers
Provider Connection Enhancements
April 14, 2021 - We are pleased to announce the latest enhancements to the Provider Connection website! Changes include improved web page design in several areas, and the ability for Account Managers to use the Provider Demographics page to update the practice information that appears in the Find a Doctor tool. We also added two new features to the Real-Time Claims web tool: service line split (unbundling) and a self-referral option. Please check the revised Provider Connection Reference Guide for information about these enhancements.
View guide (PDF, 2.2 MB)
New extended hours for Provider Services – 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
March 16, 2021 - The Blue Shield of California Provider Services team is now available to assist you between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, at (800) 541-6652. After hours and during the weekend, our automated system will receive your calls and offer guidance. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Provider Services if you need assistance.
Kidney Care Program for Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plan members
March 15, 2021 - In the second quarter of 2021, Blue Shield of California plans to launch a kidney care program for eligible Blue Shield Medicare Advantage HMO and PPO plan members who have late-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The program will be offered at no extra cost to the members, to augment care provided by their current primary care physician, physician of choice, nephrologist, or other specialists during the time between patient visits.
Read the FAQ (PDF, 90 KB)
Real-Time Claims web tool enhancements
February 11, 2021 - The Real-Time Claims web tool, available on Provider Connection, has recently been updated to include: the ability to print estimates and claims; error messages; NPI search capability; copay field; dashboard manual refresh; and the ability to manually expire an estimate. Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions document to learn more about the Real-Time Claims web tool.
View the PDF (PDF, 106 KB)
Medication Policy and Formulary Updates 1st Quarter 2021
February 4, 2021 - View a summary of Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee decisions on injectable medication policy updates and formulary changes.
View summary (PDF, 146 KB)
Blue Shield of California Expands Collaboration with Dignity Health Hospitals to Make Billing and Payment Easier for Patients, Providers
January 25, 2021 - Blue Shield of California has expanded its innovative program designed to transform the medical payment system for patients and medical providers. In partnership with CommonSpirit Health (which operates Dignity Health hospitals) and software startup OODA Health, Blue Shield has launched its new Member Payment program with 26 Dignity Health facilities across California.
Read the press release
Specialty Preferred Drug List for Medical Benefit Update
January 1, 2021 - View a summary of the Specialty Preferred Drug List for Medical Benefit update.
View summary (PDF, 47 KB)