Your Advantage Starts Here

Welcome to Your Blue Cross Medicare Advantage Plan

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois is here to help you start taking the right steps in your care. Learn about your Blue Cross Medicare Advantage plan like what happens after you enroll, how to use and understand your plan’s benefits, how to find a provider or pharmacy, and more. If you have questions, we’re here to help, visit our Contact Us page.

What to Expect When You First Enroll

Medicare must approve your enrollment before you are officially a member. This generally takes about 10 business days. Within that time of receiving your enrollment form, we’ll send you an acknowledgement letter. After your enrollment is approved by Medicare, you’ll get a confirmation letter.

A Welcome Packet Will Come in the Mail

Look out for a packet with your member ID card, and other important documents and information. Your Welcome Packet will include important documents and information like:

You'll Get a Welcome Call

First, we want to make sure you received your member ID card and your EOC in the mail. We can also answer your questions and address any of your immediate needs. If you'd like we can also:

• Help schedule your Annual Wellness exam
• Take you through the EOC, which is not a bill, but an important document for you to know about
• If you choose to answer a few voluntary health questions to help us understand your needs
• Go over additional plan benefits, such as the Healthy Action Rewards

You'll Get Email Updates (If You Choose)

Stay informed about health plan benefits and programs throughout the year via email. We never share your email address and you can always opt out any time.

Using Your Plan's Benefits

To start managing your Blue Cross Medicare Advantage plan, you can get basic information about how your plan works. You can also access tools and resources to help you get the most from your plan.

Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

You will receive an Annual Notice of Change in October. This notice outlines any expected premium and/or benefit changes for next year. These changes will go into effect January 1 of the following calendar year. Review this document carefully.

Explanation of Benefits (EOB)

This is a statement of services rendered. It is not a bill. It simply details what you have paid and the level of benefits you’ve used. How often you receive an EOB depends on how often you fill your prescriptions or see your providers. Review the details on your EOBs to be sure they are correct. If you think there are errors, please contact us. If you think you are the victim of fraud, report it immediately.