Shopping for health insurance coverage can be confusing, and there are quite a few different plan options to choose from. One excellent option for many families is a Florida Blue Select health plan. However, learning more about this coverage is essential so that you can determine if it’s the right fit for your family.
Understanding Florida Blue Select Health Plans
Florida Blue, which was formerly known as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, is currently the largest insurer in Florida. In fact, it offers health insurance coverage to more than 50 percent of insured individuals in the state.
Florida Blue Select health plans are one option offered by Florida Blue. When compared to its “brother”, Blue Options, it is a slightly smaller network that is only offered to those who live in certain areas of the state. Even though the network is smaller, those who choose coverage through a Blue Select health plan will still have the option to see physicians, specialists and more across the state. However, those who are thinking about selecting Blue Select should make sure that their area is in the network.
- 2016 Plans
- BlueSelect Essential Plans:
1452
1452P
1442 (HSA)
1442P Plus (HSA) - BlueSelect Everyday Health Plans:
1443
1449
1443P Plus
1449P Plus
1456
1456P Plus
1464
1464P Plus
1451
1451P Plus
Premier 1451V - BlueSelect All Copay:
1535
Plus 1535P
1457
Plus 1457P
The Advantages of Having a Florida Blue Select Health Plan
Florida Blue Select PPO plans function almost identically to the similar Blue Options plans. You will have the ability to schedule appointments for yourself and your kids with all of the doctors and specialists in the network, and you don’t have to worry about getting a referral. If you don’t like a certain doctor or would simply like a second opinion, you don’t have to go through a long process; instead, you can simply choose another doctor from the network. In many cases, you won’t have to pay an increased rate as long as you choose an in-network physician.
Even if the doctor that you are considering seeing is out of the network, you can still use your health insurance coverage. You will simply have to pay the rates for out of network benefits. One of the main reasons why people choose Blue Select PPO plans is because of the value that they offer. If you’re looking for coverage that you can afford, Florida Blue Select health plans could be the right choice for you and your kids.
The main difference between Blue Select plans and Blue Options plans is the network size, so this is something to take into consideration. If you live in a more populated area, you might find that the network is large enough for your needs. Some families who live in smaller, less populated areas, however, find that Florida Blue Select health plans don’t offer enough options for physicians.
Since you might be looking for affordable coverage through Blue Select, you are probably tempted by the lower premiums for coverage for yourself and your children. These health insurance plans are generally cheaper, but they aren’t the best choice for some families. Before making your decision, take a look at the providers in your area to ensure that you will have plenty of options.
Here are a few things that you should know about Florida Blue Select health plans for adults and children:
- You cannot be denied coverage for pre-existing conditions.
- Preventative and chronic conditions care is offered.
- Blue Select offers coverage in all four plan tiers: Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze.
- This coverage is available in select regions in the state of Florida.
- Emergency care is available nationwide.
- Deductibles range from $0 to $7,000 per person.
Should You Consider Florida Blue Select Health Plans?
If you are in excellent health, don’t go to the doctor often and are looking for cheap coverage, you should consider getting quotes for Blue Select plans. You can pick a provider from the in-network list when you need to see a physician and enjoy the traditionally lower rates offered by Blue Select. You may qualify for a low deductible, or you could opt for a high deductible in order to decrease your premium.
Also, if your family has a wide range of medical-related needs, a Blue Select plan could be the right choice if you live in an area where providers are sufficient. For example, if you suffer from chronic conditions or if your little ones have special needs, you can save money while having sufficient coverage by opting for a Blue Select plan. Before making this decision, however, you should ensure that there are plenty of doctors and specialists in your area who are considered to be in the network.
Lastly, if you are on a tight budget and are willing to switch physicians if necessary, a Blue Select plan could be your best option. Before making this decision, however, you should also check to make sure there are enough providers in your area.
Florida Blue Select Health Plan: Essential Health Benefits
The Affordable Care Act states that by law, non-grandfathered small employer group and individual health insurance plans must offer certain types of coverage to all of their clients. The following are considered to be Essential Health Benefits as of 2014:
- Pediatric services, including vision and oral care.
- Preventative and wellness services
- Chronic disease management
- Laboratory services
- Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices
- Prescription medication
- Mental health services, substance use services and behavioral health treatment
- Maternity care and newborn care
- Emergency services
- Hospitalization
- Ambulatory patient services
Finding the Best Florida Blue Select Health Plan For You
Looking for quotes online is the best way to compare high deductible, low deductible and other plans. Doing so can make it easy to determine the right plan for you and can help you secure coverage while saving as much money as possible.
You might find that a Florida Blue Select health plan offers sufficient coverage and has a large enough network in your area, or you can look online for a rate quote from other companies. Regardless, we can help you with this essential process. Secure Health Options is licensed to sell individual health, group health and Medicare policies here in the state of Florida, and we are a leading provider of Florida Blue insurance. To start looking for your quote, type your ZIP code into the field above to see your available options.
