Blue Shield of California has officially announced the launch of several new services and collaborations that combine cutting-edge technology with high-touch care to enhance Medicare Products and Services for seniors.
Talk about these enhancements and collaborations on a slightly deeper level, we begin from Blue Shield’s partnership with Amazon Pharmacy. Under the agreed terms, starting January 1, 2025, Blue Shield will offer augmented pharmacy service options for members, including home delivery from Amazon Pharmacy at no additional cost, along with tools to find the lowest-cost medications. Furthermore, members will have phone access of pharmacists 24/7.
Next up, we have Blue Shield’s partnership with Member Health Record. Launched earlier this year, Member Health Record provides members with easy and digital access to their health information and medical history. This includes visit information, lab results, health reminders and more, all of it available within the Blue Shield member app and website.
Then, there is the partnership with Blue Zones Challenge™ app. Accessible through Wellvolution at no extra cost, this first-of-its-kind program makes it possible for members to adopt lifestyle habits from Blue Zones, which are regions around the world where people live statistically longer, healthier and happier lives than those who do not live in those areas.
Moving on, now we touch on the array of Medicare coverage options that Blue Shield will offer during the 2025 Annual Enrollment Period, For starters, there is a broad range of plans available, including a PPO option in Orange and San Diego counties, ensuring flexibility and comprehensive coverage. Next up, up there are comprehensive medical benefits in play, considering most plans happen to include minimal or no copays for physician visits, as well as for inpatient and outpatient hospital care.
Joining the mix is a SilverSneakers® fitness program, which delivers at your disposal free memberships at thousands of participating gyms across California, while simultaneously providing access to live and on-demand virtual classes that seniors can access from their home. Another detail worth a mention about this program is how it will be available at no extra cost.
“Blue Shield of California continually strives to improve the quality of care for our Medicare members,” said Alex Uhm, vice president and general manager of Medicare at Blue Shield of California. “Seniors face real challenges, from managing complex medication schedules to accessing the right care when they need it. By leveraging innovative technology and personalizing care, we’re simplifying health care and making it easier for our members to navigate their health needs.”
Blue Shield also took this opportunity to introduce enhanced benefits in Blue Shield TotalDual Plan (HMO D-SNP), benefits that will be available across Los Angeles and San Diego Counties.
As for what they are likely to include, though, the answer covers $0 covered Part D prescription drugs for all members across all tiers. Up next is an assortment of grocery benefits. Here, members will receive a $50 monthly allowance through the Healthy Benefits card to purchase nutritious food for supporting healthy diets and overall wellness.
There is also available a hearing-aid allowance that will be worth upto $1,500 per year. Complementing the same would be an offering of two hearing aid fittings and evaluations (applies to both ears combined). The enhanced benefits will further bring to the fore dedicated transportation support. This translates to how members can come expecting access to 48 one-way trips per year for both medical and non-medical transportation needs, including visits to fitness locations, grocery stores, and healthcare appointments.
The proposition even includes over-the-counter benefits that will ensure members receive $70 monthly allowance for items such as aspirin, vitamins, cold and cough preparations, and bandages.
Beyond that, Blue Shield will provide concierge services. To do so, customer relationship agents will assist Medicare Advantage members in regards to scheduling appointments with primary care physicians and specialists, obtaining test results and medical equipment, and closing care gaps.
