• What is BlueSecure?
• When can I apply for BlueSecure?
• Are these managed care (HMO) plans?
• Will I need to switch doctors if I enroll in BlueSecure?
• Can I see a specialist whenever I want?
• Is BlueSecure accepted when I travel out of state and need medical care?
• What if a I (or my spouse) plan to work after age 65 and continue receiving group health care benefits?
• Do I need other types of insurance beyond a BlueSecure policy?
• Does BlueSecure include coverage for prescription drugs?
• What if I have questions about my benefits?
BlueSecure is an employer-sponsored health insurance plan which helps pay for charges that are not covered by original Medicare. BlueSecure medical benefits are coordinated with original Medicare benefits. This group policy is available to those employees and their dependents who are Medicare-eligible and it features benefits similar to traditional Medicare Supplement plans. You must also be primary under Medicare according to federal law in order to be eligible for BlueSecure.
When can I apply for BlueSecure?
To apply for BlueSecure coverage, you must be eligible for Medicare (age 65 or older) and must be an employee, retiree, or dependent of an employee of an employer group that is contracted with BCBSNM to offer this coverage. Applicants must be enrolled in both Medicare Parts A and B as their primary coverage, and if accepted for BlueSecure coverage, must continue to pay any Medicare premiums and remain enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B. You may choose BlueSecure during an open enrollment period (up to six months after the date turning age 65 or older and enrolling in Medicare Part B). Note: Members who are primary under the employer group health plan according to federal law (e.g., active employees in groups of 20 or more) may not enroll in BlueSecure.
Are these managed care (HMO) plans?
No. BlueSecure plans offer the freedom to use any physician and any hospital that accepts Medicare payment. You don't need a referral from one doctor to see another.
Will I need to switch doctors if I enroll in BlueSecure?
No. You may continue to see your own doctor, as long as your doctor accepts Medicare payment. BlueSecure is convenient and flexible, giving freedom of choice.
Can I see a specialist whenever I want?
Yes. Just remember that out-of-pocket costs will be less if you choose a physician who accepts Medicare assignment.
Is BlueSecure accepted when I travel out of state and need medical care?
Yes. We understand that you may need medical care when traveling, and that's the purpose of dependable coverage with BlueSecure insurance. The BCBSNM ID card is recognized and accepted by doctors, hospitals, and other facilities nationwide. You will still be required to use providers that accept Medicare payment in order to receive coverage under BlueSecure.
What if I (or my spouse) plan to work after age 65 and continue receiving group health care benefits?
Check with your employer's group plan administrator. Depending on the size of your group, you may have to remain in your employer's regular health care plan or you may be able to choose original Medicare plus BlueSecure coverage. If you stay with your group health care plan, a Special Enrollment Period lets you delay purchasing Part B until you need it.
Do I need other types of insurance beyond a BlueSecure policy?
BlueSecure is designed so that you generally do not need other similar coverage.
Does BlueSecure include coverage for prescription drugs?
BlueSecure does not include coverage for outpatient prescription drugs. The only benefits for prescription drugs paid under BlueSecure are those supplied and used during a hospital admission, skilled nursing facility stay, or hospice election that qualifies for Medicare coverage.
Some employers offer creditable coverage for prescription drugs (such as Medicare Part D or some other type of prescription drug plan that is equal to or better than Medicare prescription drug coverage). You should check with your employer group benefit administrator when determining your options for prescription drug coverage.
What if I have questions about my benefits?
BCBSNM's customer service representatives are available to answer your questions 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. MT, Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT on weekends and holidays (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas). If you call after hours, you can leave a message and we will return your call by the next business day. Call the toll-free number printed on the back of your member ID card. Please have your ID card available when you call. You may also email your questions to BCBSNM Customer Service.
Learn More About BlueSecure
Overview
Benefit Information
