CHICAGO — Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) announced new low cost Medicare Advantage plans for 2022 that offer access to the rich and high-quality provider networks our members are accustomed to. These new options build on the company’s commitment to increase access to affordable care across its health plans in Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. HCSC is adding these new plan options while continuing our dedication to excellent member experiences and helping members receive access to high-quality care and service as exemplified by consistent improvements in its Star ratings.
HCSC is delivering on our commitment to provide affordable health care choices. For 2022, HCSC has added 22 new $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans, including both HMO and PPO plan options, with expanded geographical presence throughout its five states. HCSC also will offer an Open Access Flex PPO plan, in which members can access any provider who accepts Medicare, including primary care physicians and specialists, without a copay, coinsurance or an out-of-pocket maximum. Members will enjoy a high level of cost certainty with the Flex PPO plan since there are no out-of-pocket costs.
Our health plans will continue to offer competitive benefits. Plans will provide access to a telehealth provider to help members access urgent care wherever they are when they need it. Additionally, some plans will offer additional supplement benefits such as over-the-counter items, travel programs, and dental, vision, and hearing benefits.
“We have a longstanding commitment to provide products that address our customers’ needs. Our 2022 Medicare Advantage plans reflect the demand we’re seeing for affordable product offerings, along with benefits beyond traditional Medicare,” said Christine Kourouklis, president of Medicare, HCSC. “Our 2022 Medicare Advantage plans hit the mark by responding to the wants of our members, as well as those aging into Medicare throughout our states.”
HCSC recently announced for the 2022 plan year it will be offering Medicare plans in more counties than at any point in the company’s history. The expansion includes more than 90 new counties, increasing access to new coverage options for more than 1.2M additional Medicare-eligible individuals, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
“We’ve chosen expansion markets very carefully to select areas where we are confident we can successfully leverage our strong reputation and the strength of our relationships with doctors and hospitals to keep members Blue for life, as well as offering coverage for new potential customers,” said Nathan Linsley, senior vice president, Government Programs, HCSC. “Our Medicare Advantage plans will continue to provide greater choices, emphasize affordability, and are designed to help Medicare beneficiaries meet their health, lifestyle, and financial goals.”
The Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan Annual Election Period (AEP) begins October 15, 2021 and ends December 7, 2021. For more information, visit www.medicare.gov.
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About Health Care Service Corporation
Health Care Service Corporation is the country's largest customer-owned health insurer, with nearly 17 million members in its health plans in Illinois, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. A Mutual Legal Reserve Company, HCSC is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.