News for Producers
Stay up to date on the latest product news, sales resources, training materials, and regulatory requirements from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois.
Watch your inbox every Wednesday for our exclusive producer newsletter, which includes additional articles not available here.
July 1, 2026
Small Group Blue Balance Funded℠ Billing Overview
July 1, 2026
Applies to Small Groups only—both Fully Insured and currently Level-Funded
We’ve put together an overview to walk you through common questions you may get about billing for our level-funded plans for group sizes of 5-50.
Prevent Payment Problems Before They Impact Client Coverage
July 1, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Helping clients understand how payments work before an issue occurs can reduce confusion, prevent coverage issues, and support a smoother member experience.
Urgent Care: The Right Care at the Right Time
July 1, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Not every health concern requires a trip to the emergency room. For non-life-threatening issues, urgent care can be a faster and more cost-efficient option for your clients.
Additional Producer Updates
Some topics are not available on our public website. For this week’s additional news, check your producer newsletter email or log in to Blue Access for Producers℠. (The newsletter will be posted in the portal within one week.)
- Easify℠ Edge Broker Webinar
- Unity Health Hub Webinar: Recap and Resources
- Medicare Producer Bootcamps: Final Sessions July 2-Aug. 13
- Pharmacy Updates and Satisfaction Surveys
- Illinois Senate Bill 69
More News
Drive In-Network Dental Utilization: We Have New Tools for Finding Care
June 24, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
Promote our new dental tools to clients to simplify provider searches, highlight in-network options and support informed cost conversations.
How You Can Help Avoid Unnecessary Costs
June 24, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Encourage clients to explore care options early with the Find Care feature to quickly locate in-network urgent care centers, hospitals and providers.
Don't Wait: Register for PEP Today
June 24, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Register for PEP now to get ahead of the Retail Producer Portal retirement this summer.
Coverage Termination Guidelines for Mid-Market Fully Insured Groups
June 17, 2026
Applies to Mid-Market Groups
You should submit cancellation requests at least 30 days prior to the desired termination date for Mid-Market Group medical and dental plans.
Simplify Small Group Renewals with Trionfo
June 17, 2026
Applies to Small Groups
Trionfo gives you a more efficient way to manage the renewal process from start to finish.
Why RPP No Longer Opens from BAP℠
June 17, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
To improve system security, the single sign-on connection between Blue Access for Producers℠ and the Retail Producer Portal has been disabled.
Introducing Easify Edge: Simple—on Purpose
June 10, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Groups
Get smarter coverage with Easify Edge. The plans include digital guidance, behavioral incentives and broad PPO access for confident, cost-effective care.
Supplemental Health Claims: Contact Information Has Changed
June 10, 2026
Applies to All Groups
The mailing address and fax number for our Supplemental Health Claims team have been updated. Using the new contact details will help avoid claim delays.
Get Ahead of Busy Season with Trionfo
June 10, 2026
Applies to Small Groups
Simplify quoting, enrollment and eligibility management. Trionfo lets you manage your small groups using one, integrated solution.
Payment Grace Period Outreach is Making an Impact
June 10, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Health care coverage matters—people need care, support and peace of mind. By reaching out to clients who are in a payment grace period, you are helping protect them from unnecessary disruptions in coverage and keeping them connected to the care they rely on.
Find Tools, Resources and Sales Support in One Place
June 3, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
When you can quickly find the information you need, you can spend more time selling as well as supporting your clients.
For this week’s articles, check your News from the Blues for Producers℠ newsletter email. Or log in to Blue Access for Producers℠ to view the latest newsletter.
What’s New in GLP‑1 Coverage—Spring 2026
May 20, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Groups*
GLP‑1 therapies are evolving fast. We are tracking new FDA approvals and dosing options to enhance our coverage for 2026.
Web and Mobile Accessibility Compliance: DOJ/HHS Extends Deadlines
May 20, 2026
Applies to All Groups, Individuals & Family Markets, Medicare, Medicaid*
DOJ and HHS have extended digital accessibility compliance deadlines to 2027, giving organizations more time to meet the requirements.
Docusign Guidance for Level-Funded Renewals
May 20, 2026
Applies to Level-Funded Small Groups
Small Group level-funded renewals use DocuSign to streamline agreements; use these tips to guide you through the process.
Help Members Turn Earned Rewards into Dollars
May 20, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
We sent Medicare Advantage members emails reminding them to redeem wellness rewards they have earned.
Start Using Updated Paper Applications Now
May 13, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
New forms are now available in the IFM Sales Tool Kit. You will see a “0326” on the bottom of the new applications.
Unlock Your Rewards: Download the Wellness App
May 13, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Clients who want to start earning rewards and tracking their wellness progress can download our wellness mobile app.
Request Center: Don’t Forget to Hit ‘Resubmit’
May 6, 2026
Applies to Small Groups, both Fully Insured and Level-Funded
Use the Request Center to submit Small Group renewal changes — and review our best practices to ensure your updates are processed.
Cancer Detection in Young Adults
May 6, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Groups and National Accounts*
Cancer diagnosis rates in young adults are increasing. We want to help our clients navigate the rapidly changing landscape.
Set it and Forget It: Why Auto Bill Pay Matters
May 6, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Setting up automatic bill pay helps ensure payments are made on time, every time. It also provides a convenient payment experience for your clients.
Pharmacy Program Quarterly Update – Effective July 1, 2026
May 6, 2026
Applies to All Groups, Fully Insured and ASO*
Review the quarterly pharmacy updates for members with prescription drug benefits. This is Part 1 of a two-part update.
Celebrating National Small Business Week
May 6, 2026
Applies to All Groups
Each May, the U.S. Small Business Administration honors the entrepreneurs whose dedication and perseverance fuel innovation across the country.
Announcing myVirtualCare Access Plan: A Virtual-First Health Option
April 29, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Large Groups and National Accounts*
Our new health plan is ‘virtual-first’, not ‘virtual-only’, making it easier for members to decide how, when and where to get care.
Help Clients Avoid Surprise ER Bills
April 22, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Helping clients understand their coverage and care options can reduce the risk of unexpected medical bills.
Have You Completed Your IFM Survey?
April 22, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
If you haven’t already, we invite you to take a few minutes to complete the Individual & Family Markets broker survey that was sent on March 26.
Help Members Understand How They Can Earn Rewards
April 15, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Members can earn up to $100 in gift cards yearly by completing wellness activities and health-related goals.
Manage Your Book of Business in the Producer Portal
April 15, 2026
Applies to All Groups, Individual & Family Markets
If you work with support staff who help manage your book of business, you can give them access to your account.
Producer Integrity Standards: What We Expect
April 15, 2026
Applies to All Markets
Our members and the communities we serve depend on us to act ethically and responsibly. For you, that means supporting our core values of integrity, respect, commitment, excellence and caring.
Encourage Clients to Start with Their Primary Care Provider
April 8, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Remind your clients that their doctor, primary care provider, medical group or individual practice should be their first line of care for most health needs. Establishing and using a PCP helps ensure coordinated care and typically results in lower out-of-pocket costs.
Resources for Clients: May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
April 8, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
We encourage you to remind eligible clients about the features included in our Behavioral Health product.
Blog to Share: Pregnancy Support That Works
April 8, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Groups*
Our Women’s and Family Health pregnancy blog breaks down barriers and shows how our benefits can lead to better health outcomes.
Pharmacy Program Quarterly Update Part 2: Changes Effective April 1, 2026
April 1, 2026
Applies to All Groups, ASO and Fully Insured*
The Quarterly Pharmacy Changes are published in two parts to separate updates that require member notification from those that do not require notification. Get the Part 2 details and review Part 1 if needed.
Get Ahead of Busy Season with Trionfo
March 25, 2026
Applies to Small Groups
Simplify quoting, enrollment and eligibility management for your small group account by using Trionfo. Move your small group book now, ahead of renewal season.
This Year’s Welcome Experience for Medicare Members
March 25, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
We will send Medicare members a set of onboarding communications to help them get to know their plan. Get a detailed list of what's coming their way.
At-Home Preventive Health Test Kits are Back
March 25, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
The In-home Test Kit program returns. It helps Medicare Advantage members do important preventive health tests at home. Plus, members may earn a reward.
Top 3 Reasons to Download and Keep the BCBSIL App
March 25, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
With our app, members can get their digital ID card, find in-network care and track claims. Encourage members to download and keep the app.
Help Your Clients Know Their Care Options
March 25, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Helping members with questions about where to go for care and how to use their benefits will improve their experience and reduce unnecessary costs.
Help Clients Avoid Payment Issues
March 25, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Remind clients to keep their payment information current. If we're unable to process a payment, it can lead to potential coverage issues.
Is Your Client at Risk of Losing Coverage?
March 18, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
If you have clients who have entered Grace Period 3 for missed payments, they are at risk of losing their coverage.
Help your Clients Earn $100 in Gift Cards
March 18, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Clients can log in to their online member portal to access wellness tools and programs designed to support healthier lifestyles.
Make it Easy for Clients to Find in-Network Care
March 18, 2026
Applies to Individual& Family Markets
If a client needs a new doctor or specialist, Find Care is an easy place to start.
Introducing the Unity Health Hub: Designed to Simplify Digital Health for Employers
March 11, 2026
Applies to All ASO Large Groups, Enterprise National Accounts, and Blue Balance FundedSM Groups (Small and Mid-Market)*
Unity Health Hub is part of our broader efforts to advance affordability, care coordination and the overall member experience.
Blue Balance Funded: Updated Request Center User Guides Available
March 11, 2026
Applies to Small Group Blue Balance FundedSM accounts
The user guide has been updated and now includes a walkthrough of the all-digital renewal process.
The Annual Medicare CAHPS Survey: Producer Do’s and Don’ts
March 11, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
CMS sends this survey to some Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan members each year. Their responses are shared with us — and used to evaluate our Medicare plans.
New Metabolic Health Assets Available for Employers
March 4, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
We’ve developed some materials on metabolic health that will be helpful to your clients as they navigate this health issue with their employees.
Wellness Campaign Empowers Medicare Members to Get an Annual Checkup
March 4, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
The 2026 Annual Wellness Visit Campaign launched in February and will run throughout the year.
Reminder: Pregnancy Now Qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period
March 4, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Pregnancy now qualifies as a life event, creating a Special Enrollment Period for individual and family coverage both on and off the Exchange.
Why Member Communications Matter
March 4, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Clients who open and engage with our emails are more likely to stay enrolled.
Members with Dependents Get Autism Support via Online Account
Feb. 25, 2026
Applies to All Groups, Individual & Family Markets*
A new Children with Autism section is now available in the online member portal for members who have dependents covered under their plan.
Red Light Ahead: Grace Period Reminder
Feb. 25, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
2026 Open Enrollment is now behind us, which means the grace periods for binder payments are coming to an end.
How to Track Policy Holders and Pull Your Book of Business
Feb. 25, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Keeping your book of business current helps you serve members and stay on top of upcoming needs.
The Medicare Supplement Digital Sales Kit Is Here
Feb. 25, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
The kit has all the forms and documents you need to complete the Medicare Supplement enrollment process.
Clients Need Coverage While Out of the Country? Explore BlueCross BlueShield Global Solutions℠
Feb. 18, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Our marketing materials highlight a solution designed to help brokers serve clients needing coverage beyond the U.S.
Children’s Dental Health Month: Bring Brighter Smiles to Your Clients
Feb. 11, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
Children’s Dental Health Month highlights how early dental habits support a child’s overall wellbeing.
How to Set Up Payments for Your Clients
Feb. 11, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
You can make one-time payments on behalf of your clients or set them up for auto bill pay.
Need Help? Our Support Teams Are Here for You
Feb. 11, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Ever wonder who you should contact for new product information, renewing and transitioning clients, or commission questions?
Share with Clients: Do You Know the Early Warning Signs of a Stroke?
Feb. 11, 2026
Applies to All Markets*
Knowing the earliest signs of a stroke can be a lifesaver.
Pharmacy Program Quarterly Update, Part 1: Changes Effective April 1, 2026
Feb. 4, 2026
Applies to all Self-Funded and Fully Insured groups*
Review the quarterly pharmacy updates for members with prescription drug benefits.
Healthy Aging Is Smart Business
Feb. 4, 2026
Applies to Large Groups and National Accounts, Fully Insured and Self-Funded*
With more employees staying in the workforce longer, organizations benefit greatly from their experience and expertise.
Help Clients Save on Home and Family Essentials
Feb. 4, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Your clients can save on everyday necessities for their home and family.
Let’s Revisit Premium Payments, Grace Periods and Coverage Loss
Feb. 4, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
To maintain their health plan benefits and avoid loss of coverage, your clients must manage their premium payments and understand grace periods.
Over-the-Counter Benefit Program Updates for 2026
Feb. 4, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
Medicare Advantage members with OTC benefits get a set amount of money each quarter to spend on health and wellness items – like pain relievers, first aid supplies, vitamins and more.
Supplemental Health Claims Integration Now Includes Dependents
Jan. 28, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
With member permission, most qualifying medical events can automatically trigger the claim filing process for Supplemental Health products (Accident, Critical Illness or Hospital Indemnity insurance). Learn why it matters, what's new and how it works.
Small Group Renewal Changes? Use the Request Center and Resubmit Request
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Small Groups
The Request Center is used to submit Small Group renewal paperwork, including plan changes or contact updates for existing groups. Get tips and screenshots.
New Upgrades to Our Vision Network
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to All Groups*
As of Jan. 1, all members with standalone Vision insurance are now on EyeMed’s Insight network. In-network providers include Walmart and Sam’s Club.
Your Client Signed Up for a Health Plan: Now What?
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Your clients may ask you for help after signing up for their health plan. We have a website that explains their next steps, like making a payment or selecting a provider. Check out the website.
You Can Make PCP Changes in RPP for Your Clients
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
You can help your clients with important updates – like changing their primary care provider or medical group – via the Retail Producer Portal. Make sure you are registered so you can help.
Be Ready When Calling Producer Services: Essential Info to Have on Hand
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
To save yourself time when calling Producer Services for help, have your member’s information ready. What should you have on hand?
Health Risk Assessment Outreach Underway for Medicare Advantage Members
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
HRAs help evaluate a member’s overall health and support preventive care. We are emailing our Medicare Advantage members to encourage them to complete one. Get a sample email.
New Onboarding Communications Welcome Medicare Advantage Members Into 2026
Jan. 21, 2026
Applies to Medicare Markets
We want our Medicare Advantage members to have a smooth start to the 2026 plan year. Review some sample onboarding messages.
Pregnancy Now Qualifies for a Special Enrollment Period
Jan. 14, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Pregnancy now qualifies as a life event, creating a Special Enrollment Period for individual and family coverage both on and off the Exchange.
Protect Yourself from Cervical Cancer: Get Your Screenings
Jan. 14, 2026
Applies to All Markets*
Share the importance of the well-woman exam with your group and individual clients. A simple Pap test can protect women from a life-threatening cancer.
Better Health for All Starts with Better Health Care for Women
Jan. 7, 2026
Applies to Self-Funded Groups and National Accounts*
Women are a vital part of the workforce. We’re here for your clients with resources and insights to help support their health holistically.
Only One Week Left of Open Enrollment
Jan. 7, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
In this final stretch of open enrollment, connect with your clients. Check out some tips and resources.
BCBSIL Help Center
Jan. 7, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Encourage your Individual & Family Markets clients to visit the Help Center for quick and easy access to the information they need.
Not So Passive: Next Steps for Passive Renewals
Jan. 7, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
In your book of business, reach out to passive renewal clients who haven’t yet made their January premium payment and share payment options with them.
Making Payments Easier for Applicants and Producers
Jan. 7, 2026
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
The first premium payment is required to effectuate coverage for individual and family qualified health plans. Review options for you and your clients.
Clients Must Cancel Current Coverage When Moving to a New State
Dec. 31, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Qualified health and dental plans under the Affordable Care Act are specific to a client’s state of residence. Learn what clients need to do when they move.
How You Can (and Cannot) Help Members During Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
Dec. 31, 2025
Applies to Medicare Markets
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs Jan. 1 to March 31. It gives current Medicare Advantage enrollees a one-time opportunity to make a coverage change if their current plan isn’t meeting their needs. Get sales and marketing dos and don'ts.
Employer News: Giving Your Clients More Timely Updates
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to All Groups*
Starting in January, we’re making changes to how we share important updates with employers—designed to make information easier to access and act on.
Average Employee Count Deadline Extended to Jan. 9
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to Fully Insured Groups*
Deadline extension: The deadline for Large Fully Insured groups to submit their 2024 Average Employee Count information through Blue Access for Employers℠ has been extended to Jan. 9, 2026.
2025 Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestation Submission
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to All Groups*
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services collects Gag Clause Prohibition Compliance Attestations from applicable group health plans and issuers that offer group and individual health insurance coverage. These attestations are due by Dec. 31 each year based on current guidance from the federal government.
Use the Request Center for All Small Group Renewal Changes
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to Small Group
The Request Center is used to submit Small Group renewal paperwork for account/group-level changes on existing groups. Get tips and screenshots.
2026 SEP Off-Exchange Training Now Available
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Plan year 2026 off-Exchange Special Enrollment training is now available. Strengthen your skills now.
Access Your Book of Business in 4 Steps
Dec. 17, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
The Retail Producer Portal isn’t just for quoting, enrolling and servicing clients. It’s also your go-to resource for managing your book of business. With just a few clicks, you can download detailed reports and keep client information at your fingertips.
New Pharmacy Services Program, Pharmacy Match, Coming in 2026
Dec. 10, 2025
Applies to Groups, Individual & Family Markets
Living with a complex, long-term or rare health condition can be challenging. The medications needed to treat these conditions often have special handling or storage needs and may only be filled at select pharmacies. It is also vital for patients to closely follow the drug care plan from their health care provider or pharmacist.
IFM Sales Tool Kit: Resources to Market, Sell, Renew and Enroll
Dec. 10, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
The IFM Sales Tool Kit is available to help you market, sell, renew and enroll — and keep up on training.
Help Clients Stay Informed — With One Tap
Dec. 10, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois mobile app makes managing health plans simple — and cuts down on repeat questions.
With Thanks and Gratitude: A Message from the BCBSIL Medicare Sales Team
Dec. 10, 2025
As we wrap up another AEP and move into the holiday season, we just want to take a moment to celebrate you. Your energy, dedication and resilience made a real impact for the members and communities we serve. We couldn’t do this without you.
Share with Clients: How to Talk to Kids About Adult Mental Health Issues
Dec. 10, 2025
Share this information with your clients.
Recent studies report that over 60 million adults in the U.S. experienced a mental illness in the past year. Many people with mental health disorders are parents. It may seem hard or stressful to talk to your kids about your or another adult’s mental health struggles. But experts say it is better for the long-term health of your family.
2026 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period Ends This Sunday, Dec. 7
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Medicare Markets
The 2026 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period ends on Sunday, Dec. 7. All applications must be submitted by midnight local time to ensure Medicare coverage changes go into effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
‘Producer News’ Coming to Our Public Site
Dec. 3, 2025
We’re excited to share an upcoming enhancement that will make it easier for you to access the information you need. By the end of 2025, we will begin posting producer newsletter articles on our BCBSIL public site in a new “Producer News” section.
State-Based Exchange Plans: January Invoices and Payments
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Illinois is moving from HealthCare.gov to a state-based marketplace called Get Covered Illinois for 2026 Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. Learn what you and your clients need to know.
Ready to Quote Blue Balance Funded℠? Start with the Quoting Eligibility Checklist
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Small and Mid-Market Groups
To help streamline your conversations with clients and prospects about their eligibility for Blue Balance Funded℠, a level-funded plan, we’ve developed a quoting eligibility checklist flyer.
Small Group Medical Policy Termination
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Fully Insured Small Group*
Under the Affordable Care Act, when an employer cancels medical coverage, they must provide adequate notice to all their covered employees that the group medical policy will terminate on a chosen date.
Be Ready Before You Call Producer Services: Key Details to Have Handy
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Calling Producer Services without the right information can slow things down. To ensure fast, accurate assistance, gather some details before you pick up the phone.
Stop Searching—Save These Must-Have Links Now
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Unlock everything you need to sell smarter—explore these resources now.
Cut Costs, Not Workouts: Blue365® Helps Your Clients Save on Fitness
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to Individual & Family Markets
Whether your clients work out in the gym or at home, both can be costly. With our exclusive Blue365 discount program, members can get discounts at popular gyms, and discounted equipment and more.
BlueResource℠: ‘Tis the Season to Stress Less
Dec. 3, 2025
Applies to All Markets*
The holidays are a good time to connect and spend time with people we care about. In the rush of all the excitement, stress can often rear its ugly head. BlueResource offers helpful tips to help members navigate all the festivities. Share our holiday content with your clients.
*This article, or a similar version, is being shared with employer groups in our employer newsletter or news alert.
Last Updated: June 30, 2026