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California health insurance - California individual health plans - Smart Sense PPO Plan


Blue Cross of California Smart Sense Plans

UPDATE: The Anthem Blue Cross Smart Sense plans are no longer available since Jan 1st, 2014

The Equivalent plans would be on the Silver level on or off Exchange (Quote Below)

We have listed current Individual Family plans on the market which are priced well and the Smart Sense plans by Anthem Blue Cross are high on that list.

It's been a strong option for a while now and recent changes on the market have made it one of the benchmark plans to consider when running a quote.

Let's take a summary look at the suite of plans called Smart Sense.

Benefits below are based on in-network for eligible expenses.

We'll break down the core benefits and then discuss the options within Smart Sense both in terms of deductible and prescription.

You can always run your quote for plans equivalent to the Smart Sense here:

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Some people might still have grandfathered plans so let's look at the Smart Sense plan.

Smart Sense Office Visit Benefit

For office visit consultations, you get 3 copays at $30 per family member per calendar year.

Preventative benefits will be covered at 100% in network for eligible services separately from the 3 office copays.

The copays can be used for general practice doctors or specialists in-network.

After the first 3 copays, additional office visits will be subject to the main deductible.

Smart Sense Core Benefits

You have a choice of Smart Sense deductibles: $2000, $3500, and $6000.

This deductible is per person up to two per family. You then pay 30% until you hit the Out of Pocket Max of $3500.

Essentially, for big bills, you add the deductible of choice and the $3500 max per person (up to two in a family).

You can access the online application here:

How to apply for California obamacare

Smart Sense Prescription Coverage

The Smart Sense allows you to choose between a Generic option (has a brand deductible of $7500) or Upgrade RX option which has a lower brand deductible of $500.

Generics are available right away at $15 and brand (if available) splits between $40 for formulary or $60 for non-formulary brand.

The Smart Sense $3500 was usually the best value (within this suite or on the market in general) but you can compare your rates with our Smart Sense health quote.

Compare these plans with current Bronze or Silver plans (which are priced really well).

Related Articles:


Current California health insurance planscape

You can run your Smart Sense Alternative Quote here to view rates and plans side by side from the major carriers...Free.

Again, there is absolutely no cost to you for our services. Call 800-320-6269 Today!

Covered California Plans Explained! (How to Choose the Right Option in 2026) - Watch on YouTube

Frequently Asked Questions
▸ Are Anthem Blue Cross Smart Sense PPO plans still available in California?
No. Anthem Blue Cross Smart Sense plans were discontinued effective January 1, 2014, when the ACA marketplace launched. Californians looking for comparable coverage should explore current individual and family plans available today.
▸ What replaced the Blue Cross Smart Sense PPO plan in California?
When Smart Sense plans ended, Silver-tier plans on and off Covered California were considered the closest equivalent in terms of coverage level and cost-sharing structure. You can get a current individual and family quote to compare today's available options.
▸ Does Anthem Blue Cross offer PPO plans in California's individual market?
No. In California's individual and family market, Anthem Blue Cross generally offers EPO and HMO plans, not PPO plans. If a PPO is important to you, Blue Shield of California is one carrier that does offer PPO options in the individual market.
▸ How do I find a current individual health plan in California similar to Smart Sense?
A licensed California agent can help you compare today's Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans from multiple carriers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Since plans, premiums, and subsidy rules change each year, getting a current quote is the most reliable approach.
▸ Is help from CalHealth.net free when shopping for a California health plan?
Yes. Assistance from CalHealth.net (Goodacre Insurance Services, licensed since 1994) is at no cost to you - you pay the same premium as going directly to the carrier. You can reach a licensed agent at 800-320-6269 or contact the team here.
The answers above are general information about California health insurance and may change as rates, plans, and rules are updated each year. They are not a substitute for personalized advice. For current, personalized guidance, please contact us, email help@calhealth.net, or call 800-320-6269. Serving California since 1994.
Free Covered California Quote
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