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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois Now Offering Two New Standardized Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans

June 9, 2010

As of June 1, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) is offering new Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans G and N. Members and those considering Plans G and N can enroll at anytime; there are no specific enrollment periods or deadlines. The changes to the configuration of Medicare Supplement plans are the result of the "Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008" (MIPPA), which took effect on June 1.

All plans sold after June 1 have an enhanced hospice benefit, which includes coverage for some outpatient prescription medications and copayments and coinsurance for inpatient respite care, which were previously the responsibility of the insured.

"These are more opportunities to save money," says Katherine Wright, vice president of Consumer Markets for BCBSIL. "There are new budget-friendly plans that require insured cost-sharing in exchange for lower premiums. Plans G and N will be available with 'Standard' and 'Select' options. The 'Select' option helps members save additional money by offering a select network of participating hospitals and is available with most plans."

Besides adding Plans G and N, BCBSIL will no longer sell Plan D and E (the current 'Standard' and 'Select' options). However, these plans are guaranteed renewable for life so existing members can stay with these plans for as long as they like. BCBSIL Medicare Supplement rates will not increase as a result of the MIPPA changes, and the law does not require existing members to take any action to change their plans if they don't desire, according to Wright.

Those who want to buy a BCBSIL Medicare Supplement insurance plan can call 1-800-646-3000, Monday through Friday, from 8am – 6pm CST or visit www.bcbsil.com. All BCBSIL Medicare Supplement plans are guaranteed acceptance for Illinois residents age 65 or over.


About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois

With more than 7 million members, BCBSIL, a division of Health Care Service Corporation, a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, is the largest health insurance company in Illinois. Started in 1936, BCBSIL is committed to promoting the health and wellness of its members and its communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care. BCBSIL is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.


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