Catastrophic benefit plan paired with a cost-effective provider network keeps premiums lower
SEATTLE – When it comes to health plans, one size doesn’t fit all. Regence is introducing a new product for individuals who want to safeguard their health and financial well-being without paying for a comprehensive package of benefits they don’t need. Regence RealValue’s unique plan design, which combines a high-deductible catastrophic benefit plan with a cost-effective provider network, makes it more affordable. Premiums for Regence RealValue will be on average 20 percent less than existing Regence plans for individuals that include more comprehensive benefits.
“We know that individuals want the freedom to be able to choose the health plan fits their needs. What’s just right for a growing family or someone with chronic health problems may be too much for a single person with few medical issues,” said Chris Gorey, vice president of Sales for Regence BlueShield in Washington. “To make health insurance more attractive and more affordable to more people, Regence has introduced RealValue as an alternative for those who primarily need coverage in case of an unforeseen injury or illness.”
Available effective May 1, 2012 for Individuals in select counties in the Puget Sound region, Regence RealValue provides coverage for routine and emergency care through the RealValue provider network service area, which includes Skagit, Snohomish, King, Kitsap, Thurston and Pierce counties. Emergency and urgent care only will be covered outside of the RealValue service area.
A key component to maintaining affordable premiums for the RealValue product is the RealValue provider network, an exclusive provider organization (EPO) consisting of low-cost doctors, hospitals and other health care providers. RealValue members must receive all of their non-urgent, non-emergency medical care from participating RealValue providers in order for the services to be covered.
“We’re pleased that so many low-cost Regence contracted providers chose to participate in the RealValue network,” said Beth Johnson, vice president of Provider Services for Regence. “RealValue members will have access to primary care, specialty and hospital services throughout the greater Puget Sound area when they need them and coverage for urgent and emergency care wherever they are.”
Features of the RealValue plan include:
- Lower premium price-points
- Several deductible options
- Two office visits per year covered with a copayment before deductible
- Coverage for complex imaging services
- Discounts on prescription drugs
- Optional dental coverage
For more information on Regence’s plans for Individuals, please visit www.regence.com.
About Regence BlueShield
Regence BlueShield is a leading health plan in Washington with nearly one million members, offering health, life and dental insurance. Regence BlueShield is a nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, and is affiliated with Regence BlueShield of Idaho, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon and Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah. Together, the companies serve more than two million members in the Northwest/Intermountain Region. The Regence affiliated companies are committed to improving the health of its members and communities, and to transforming the health care system. For more information, please visit www.regence.com or www.twitter.com/RegenceWA.