Regence NowSelect offered effective Jan. 1, 2009

SEATTLE—Regence BlueShield announces the introduction of Regence NowSelectSM, a health plan for individuals designed specifically to encourage wellness and support financial security through coverage for major life events.

The hallmarks of the innovative plan are immediate coverage for preventive care with four deductible levels for affordability. The plan offers coverage for major medical needs.
“By combining immediate benefits for preventive care with a range of deductible choices, Regence has expanded the options for Washington residents,” said Jonathan Hensley, president of Regence BlueShield. “People need plans that support healthy living and maximize their ability to afford coverage.”

NowSelect’s distinctive blend of upfront benefits for preventive care includes office visits, outpatient X-ray and lab. Before meeting a deductible, members of the plan will immediately be able to receive:

  • Four office visits covered at 100 percent after a $35 copay
  • $400 X-ray and lab benefits covered at 100 percent
  • $200 preventive care services covered at 80 percent

Brokers and agents, who started selling NowSelect in late November, are pleased with the plan’s design, and find their customers are delighted also, because Regence’s newest product meets needs like few others available. Applications are surpassing expectations.

“NowSelect gives my clients what they want: catastrophic protection with enough upfront coverage to cover the small stuff,” said Vernon Bonfield of Altman Insurance Agency in Olympia. “When a health insurance company comes out with a new product that is actually designed and priced to compete with other health plans on the market, then the consumer wins. Regence has done just that with their extremely competitive NowSelect health plan.”

This latest offering represents Regence’s ongoing effort to offer a range of health plans designed to fit members’ needs, while holding down costs and adding flexibility and choice. With an expanded suite of catastrophic product designs, including Regence NowSelect, more people will be able to find a plan that fits their needs at a price they can afford. Regence continues to offer products that provide comprehensive coverage to individuals and families who want the most complete coverage they can obtain with a relatively low deductible.

About Regence BlueShield
Regence BlueShield is a leading health plan in Washington with more than one million members, offering health, life and dental insurance. Regence is the largest health insurer in the Northwest / Intermountain Region, serving three million members as Regence BlueShield (selected counties in Washington), Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Utah and Regence BlueShield of Idaho. Each plan is a not-for-profit independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Regence is committed to improving the health of our members and our communities, and to transforming our health care system. For more information, please visit www.regence.com.