How does Blue Cross FEP coordinate benefits with other insurance plans?

Blue Cross FEP, which provides health insurance to federal employees and retirees, has a specific process for coordinating benefits when members have more than one insurance plan. This is often referred to as coordinating benefits or COB. When a member is covered by multiple insurance policies, it is essential to determine which plan will serve as the primary payer and which will be the secondary payer in order to ensure that claims are appropriately processed. Generally, the primary insurance is responsible for paying the majority of the covered expenses first, while the secondary insurance may cover remaining costs up to its limits. Blue Cross FEP works in accordance with federal regulations and its own established guidelines to determine the order of benefits. Key factors in this determination include the effective dates of the policies, the relationship of the subscriber to the insured individual, and specific plan rules. Members are typically required to inform Blue Cross FEP about any additional coverage they have when they enroll or anytime there is a change in their insurance status. It is important for members to submit claims to their primary insurance first and then to Blue Cross FEP for any remaining eligible expenses. When submitting claims, it is helpful to include documentation from the primary insurance to assist with the processing of claims by Blue Cross FEP. For more detailed information about benefit coordination, members can refer to their Blue Cross FEP member handbook or the official website, which provides guidance on navigating policies and ensuring proper claim submissions.