Whether you’re heading cross country for a summer getaway or traveling abroad for a long planned vacation, it’s reassuring to know your health coverage travels with you. CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) members have access to Blue Cross and Blue Shield networks across the U.S.—and around the globe—so you can focus more on making memories and less on what happens if you need care away from home.
Care Across the United States
If you travel outside the CareFirst service area—Washington, DC., Maryland and Northern Virginia—your member ID card helps connect you to care.
Through the BlueCard program, more than
- When you need care while traveling in the U.S.:
- Always carry your member ID card.
- Show your ID card at the doctor’s office or hospital.
- In most cases, you do not need to fill out claim forms or pay the full cost up front.
- You only pay your normal out of pocket costs, like copays or deductibles.
- After your visit, CareFirst will send an explanation of benefits so you can see what was covered.
Before you travel, take a moment to confirm your benefits by calling the number on the back of your ID card. While on the road, you can search for in network providers using the National Doctor and Hospital Finder at bcbs.com or call 800 810 BLUE (2583).
As always, if you experience an emergency, go directly to the nearest hospital.
Care Around the World
Traveling abroad brings new experiences—and sometimes new questions about healthcare. Blue Cross Blue Shield Global® Core extends access to care in more than
- While you’re abroad:
- You can get help finding doctors and hospitals.
- You can get medical assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- In many hospitals, you won’t need to pay up front for inpatient care.
- You are still responsible for your usual out of pocket costs.
If you receive care outside of the Global Core network, you may need to pay the provider at the time of service and submit an international claim form for reimbursement. That form is available online at bcbsglobalcore.com.
Some plans only cover emergency care outside the United States. It’s a good idea to check your benefits before you travel. For help finding care, arranging appointments or receiving medical assistance while abroad, you can contact the Global Core Service Center 24/7 by calling 800 810 BLUE (2583).
Travel With Confidence
From weekend trips to international adventures, your coverage is designed to support you wherever life takes you. A little preparation—bringing your ID card, knowing where to find care and saving important phone numbers—can go a long way toward peace of mind while you’re away.
To find providers within the U.S. or around the world, visit bcbs.com.