Difference Between Anthem Blue Cross Health Insurance of California and Blue Shield of California?
Anthem Blue Cross Health Insurance of California and Blue Shield of California are separate, competing companies that offer comprehensive plans at the Individual and Small Group level. Provider Networks Both companies have extensive doctor and hospital lists with 48,000 doctors and 400 hospitals up and down the state. Typically the lists overlap with doctors/hospitals participating in both. Occasionally there will be a doctor who participates with one company but not the other so it’s best to check on your doctor. Financial Strength This really is the main reason to go with the “Blues”. Smaller or less efficient carriers are having difficulties with some filing for Bankruptcy. If you are with a smaller carrier that is offering significantly reduced costs, they almost definitely raise rates, lower benefits, and/or leave the market entirely. If you have developed health conditions, the other carriers will not pick you up at that time. Anthem Blue Cross Health Insurance of California is o