Blue Cross of California eases health insurance transfer

Blue Cross has just made it easier for Blue Cross of California (BCC) and BC Life & Health Insurance Company (BCL&H) members who are moving to Colorado or Nevada to stay covered. With their “Relocation Plans” initiative, Blue Cross of California gives them the opportunity to receive Underwriting approval to move to an Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan in Colorado or Nevada. For example, a member on a BCL&H Tonik plan can request the equivalent Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Tonik plan in Colorado or Nevada. (To qualify, they must have been covered on a BCC or BCL&H Individual plan for at least 6 months.)

The following Relocation Plans forms indicate the Colorado and Nevada plans available to California members. All they have to do is fill out the form and mail or fax it in.

Moving from California to Colorado

Moving from California to Nevada

Our Take:

This is the first move in what we hope is a trend towards easier transferring of health insurance between the States. Americans by nature move and move often. If a person has pre-existing conditions, it can be very difficult to qualify for coverage in his or her new State. This is important for people who are not sure if they will permanently live in California or one of these two states. We do not have information yet on whether it applies both ways.. i.e. a member of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Colorado or Nevada can transfer to California. If you are considering health insurance and there is a possible move to either of these States, Blue Cross should be your first consideration. We have received countless calls from people who are moving to another State and unfortunately, they cannot qualify for health insurance in their State. Many states do not have a safety net for people unable to qualify for coverage such as California's MRMIP program. If you are able to qualify based on health, you can access Colorado health insurance quotes or Arizona health insurance quotes from our partner.

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield merged with Blue Cross of California's parent company Wellpoint. We hope they extend this ability to transfer among their other States outside Colorado and Arizona.