WALLINGFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--For this year’s Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) is launching a new $0 premium Medicare Advantage (MA) Select HMO in six Connecticut counties and adding a post-discharge meal benefit to its existing Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan (DSNP) HMO. The AEP begins Oct. 15 and continues through Dec. 7 and is the one time each year when most people can switch MA plans.
The new $0 premium Select HMO, called Anthem MediBlue Select (HMO), holds down costs by utilizing a smaller network of providers focused on preventive, coordinated care and a positive patient experience. It will be available in Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven and Windham counties during AEP with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2017. The plan also features pharmacy benefits.
Anyone who is interested in the new plan can request a plan directory for a list of participating providers.
“We are very excited to be able to develop this new, affordable product with a group of physicians, specialists and hospitals that share our vision for delivering quality, coordinated care,” said John Caby, president of Anthem’s Medicare east region. “This new plan also helps round out our product portfolio in Connecticut so that people eligible for Medicare have a full range of choices, depending on their individual needs.”
Anthem has added a new benefit, 10 post discharge healthy meals at no cost for those who need them, to its existing Anthem MediBlue Dual Advantage (HMO DSNP) in Connecticut.
“Nutrition can be critical for anyone immediately following a hospitalization to get back to good health, but especially for older adults who may lack the support or resources they need to secure healthy meals,” Caby explained. “That’s why we are offering these nutritious meals to help bolster recovery at a critical time.”
DSNPs coordinate benefits for people eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. The plan also includes drug coverage, transportation coverage for medical visits, a fitness program and allowances for eyewear, hearing aids and health care items, such as cold and allergy products, dental products and vitamins. It is available in all Connecticut counties.
Anthem also offers Medicare Supplement plans and standalone Prescription Drug Plans (PDP) across all Connecticut counties. Medicare Supplement plans help cover costs Original Medicare doesn’t, such as copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. These plans offer access to any doctor or medical facility that accepts Medicare, generally for a higher premium than an MAPD. They are generally paired with a PDP.
For details about Anthem Medicare plans in your area, call (855) 866-3962 or visit Anthem’s Medicare online store at www.anthem.com/shop. Anthem will be holding educational events and home visits throughout AEP.
Anthem is a PPO plan, an HMO plan and a PDP with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Anthem depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on Jan. 1 of each year. The formulary, pharmacy network, and/or provider network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary.
You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is a D-SNP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the Connecticut Medicaid program. Enrollment in Anthem depends on contract renewal. This plan is available to anyone who has both Medical Assistance from the State and Medicare. Premiums, co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details.
We do not discriminate, exclude people, or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in our health programs and activities.
Anthem MediBlue Plus (HMO) Customer Service: 1-866-673-4157
Anthem MediBlue Select (HMO) Customer Service: 1-866-673-4157
Anthem MediBlue Dual Advantage (HMO SNP) Customer Service: 1-844-533-2091
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About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Health Plans, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Connecticut is available at www.anthem.com. Also follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/AskAnthem or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AskAnthem.