How the BlueCard® Program Works

When you are an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield member, your benefits travel with you wherever you go, both in the United States and around the world.

When members travel or live out-of-state, they can take advantage of the Blue Plan provider relationships in other states because he or she is a Blue Plan member. By using BlueCard participating providers, you will reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and will not receive "balance billing" from participating providers for covered services.

1. Always carry your most current Arkansas Blue Cross ID card.
2. When you're outside Arkansas, pull out your ID card and call BlueCard access at 1-800-810-BLUE (2583) for information on the nearest Blue Cross and Blue Shield doctors and hospitals in the area where you are traveling or living. For other questions, call Arkansas Blue Cross Customer Service.
3. When you arrive at the doctor's office or hospital, present your Arkansas Blue Cross ID card, and the doctor's office or hospital will verify your membership and coverage.
4. After you receive medical attention, your claims will be routed to Arkansas Blue Cross by the Blue Plan in that area.
5. All participating providers are paid directly, relieving you of any hassle or worry for covered benefits claims submission and processing. You usually will need to pay only for out-of-pocket expenses (non-covered services, deductibles, copayments or coinsurance).
6. Arkansas Blue Cross will send you a detailed Explanation of Benefits (EOB) report. Your EOB also is available under My Blueprint.

1. Not have to file any claim forms.
2. Not have to pay upfront for medical services except for the usual out-of-pocket expenses (non-covered services, deductible, copayment and coinsurance).
3. Receive an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from Arkansas Blue Cross. Your EOB also is available under My Blueprint.