Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

Blue Cross Blue Shield is a federation of 33 independent health insurance companies that collectively cover about 115 million Americans. It was formed in 1982 by merging the two organizations that named it: The Blue Cross was founded in 1929 and became the Blue Cross Association in 1960, while the Blue Shield was founded in 1939 to form the Blue Cross Association in 1948.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Affordable Care Act Plans

Blue Cross Blue Shield companies across the country participate in the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, offering a wide range of individual health coverage options.

To save money during a healthcare transition, an individual ACA Plan plan would be an affordable option to COBRA continuation.

Certifications and Independent Ratings for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

• Individual BCBS companies often achieve NCQA Health Plan Accreditation for meeting national quality standards. For example, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina holds an “Accredited” status from NCQA for its plan quality.
• BCBS plans are generally financially strong as well, with most major BCBS insurers rated in the A range by A.M. Best for financial strength.