As you’re gathering items for your suitcase, make sure there’s one thing you don’t forget – your Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas ID card! It’s important to have in case you need medical care while away from home. And, you can have complete peace of mind while on the road because the Blue Cross Blue Shield companies provide access to the largest hospital and physician network in the United States.

Before you head out the door, make sure you understand what your benefits cover while traveling in the United States. Most likely, your plan will already be covered under the BlueCard® program. It’s a national program that enables members of one Blue Plan to obtain health care benefits while traveling or living in another Blue Plan’s service area.

For example, if a BCBSKS member slips off the sidewalk and breaks their foot while visiting The Alamo, the provider that treats him or her will be paid the rate Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas has negotiated with the local hospital. The member will still be responsible for out-of-pocket costs, like a copay, but it will be lower than the medical costs associated with having out-of-network insurance.

To make sure you’re covered while on vacation, just follow these easy steps:

• Always carry your BCBSKS ID card.
• In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital.
• If you need to find the nearby doctors and hospitals, call the number on the back of your ID card, 1-800-810-BLUE (2583). You can also take a look at our provider directory online.

Happy traveling!