Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is becoming part of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Together, we will create the best opportunity to improve Louisiana’s healthcare system for patients, local providers, and communities.
Same doctors with access to even more benefits for patients
Investments to reduce administrative burden, simplify healthcare, and give providers more time to focus on patient care.
National scale and technology that will enhance care across the state
We are united in our commitment to those we serve. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana (BCBSLA) has served its members for the past 90 years, and together we will continue this mission for the next 90 years and beyond to help improve the lives of Louisianians.
Important Steps to Improve Louisiana’s Healthcare System
This partnership will provide enhanced scope, technology, and capabilities while maintaining the benefits of BCBSLA’s local experience and presence. This translates to more affordable care, a better overall experience for providers, members, and customers, and improved health outcomes for all Louisianans.
With the largest provider network in the nation covering both urban and rural markets, BCBSLA members will be able to keep the same doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers in Louisiana. Nearly 100% of all hospitals and more than 95% of providers are in-network cross Anthem’s affiliated BCBS plans in 14 states.
Members will also benefit from investments Anthem has made in recent years in behavioral health, complex and chronic care programs, and innovative digital models of access and care — with more to come.
Benefits for Healthcare Providers and Hospital Systems
Anthem’s partnership with BCBSLA will support the enhancement and strength of the provider service delivery model to meet provider needs on the local level:
Innovative care management approach to drive a better provider and patient experience through a case manager-to-provider relationship.
Local teams focused on supporting providers. Anthem has a robust Provider Relationship Account Management Team in every market. The current provider relations teams in Louisiana will remain in place.
Intense focus on simplification by migrating to one system for all provider data — we are the only national carrier in the industry to make this commitment and deliver.
Expedited claims processing, including clearer clinical guidelines, faster decision-making, and easier submission processes. The result: 98% of claims are processed within 30 days.
Access to digital tools on the Availity website that enables improved turnaround times, reduced errors and resubmissions, and transparency on status of requests.
Continuation of current service and reimbursement practices. Anthem has committed to maintaining existing contracts and reimbursement rates.
Enhanced provider platform modernization, portal enhancements, and data management digital capabilities.
Creation of a provider advisory group representing all corners of the state so that we remain close to the issues that matter to healthcare professionals in Louisiana.
A Track Record of Commitment to Residents and Providers in Rural Communities
Anthem believes rural communities deserve reliable access to health care professionals, services, and information.
We have experience building strong and effective healthcare networks in rural communities, including through partnerships with in-state organizations and healthcare providers, technology, and patient outreach for community-based needs
Main Street Collaboration. Through robust access points and partnerships with independent clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Rural Health Clinics (RHCs), and Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs), we bring health capabilities to rural communities where these models don’t exist.
Mobile Clinics. Mobile clinics are equipped with medical professionals, providing basic healthcare services and preventative care screenings to deliver healthcare services closer to consumers.
Consumer Health Education and Outreach. Health education and outreach programs in rural communities raise awareness about preventive care, chronic disease management, and available healthcare resources.
Telehealth services. The availability of virtual appointments allows members to receive medical advice, consultations, and prescriptions without having to travel long distances.
Anthem recognizes that delivering solutions that are unique to our communities requires us to live and work where we serve our members.
All local Anthem plans are led by Plan Presidents who are in their respective states. We have cultivated long lasting relationships in our markets with brokers, providers, and our customers. This allows us to understand the issues that matter the most to all those we serve in the local market and deliver solutions that are tailored to meet the needs of the market.