Insurance Basics

Knowing health insurance basics can help you and your family find a health care plan that fits your budget and needs.

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Type of Plans

When comparing Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) health plans, you might come across some options like:

  • HMO: A Health Maintenance Organization keeps costs low by working with your primary care doctor for any needs and specialty referrals
  • PPO:  A Participating Provider Organization lets you choose where you go for care without needing referrals or in-network providers
  • CDHP: A Customer-Driven Health Plan gives you more control of your health care costs and is most often paired with a health savings account
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Health Insurance Costs

Learn what premiums, deductibles, copayments and coinsurance are and how they work together for your coverage.

Review costs

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How to Enroll

You have a few ways to enroll in a 2023 BCBSIL health plan.

Review your options

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Member Tools

Learn about the BCBSIL tools that can help you best use your plan, like Provider Finder, Form Finder and Blue Access for MembersSM.

More about member tools

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Financial Assistance

You may be able to save on your monthly bill with a premium tax credit, also known as a subsidy. Find out how much you could save.

Get your estimate

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Health Care Terms

Look up common health care terms in our glossary.

Search Glossary

Last Updated: May 23, 2023