Frequently Asked Questions

What if I apply and change my mind?
If coverage is offered, you'll receive an ID card and a policy to examine for 30 days at no cost to you. When you are satisfied with the policy, be sure to pay the first premium to activate your coverage. If you change your mind: Return the policy and ID card by delivering or mailing it to the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (the Insurer) Administrative Office, branch office, or agent through whom it was purchased. Any premiums paid will be returned.

Am I covered when I'm out of state?
When you carry the familiar Blue Cross and Blue Shield ID card, you can travel with confidence. Just present your card to your provider. If Medicare approves the charges, we will also approve your services.

How soon will my coverage begin?
Almost Immediately! Just send in your application. Once you are approved, we will send you an ID card, policy and a bill for your first premium. Your coverage begins once you pay your first premium. It' s that easy!

If I ask for a free kit, am I obligated to buy insurance?
Of course not. This free kit request only asks for the information needed to supply you with a low rate. Even after you choose an insurance plan and begin the application process, you are not obligated to buy one of our quality Medicare Supplement insurance plans.

Can I go to any Doctor or Specialist I choose?
As a Medicare supplement subscriber, you can choose your doctor or specialist for care. Your coverage will be recognized across the country.

How does the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Medicare Select^† option differ from the standard plan?
A Medicare Select option works just like a standard Medicare Supplement plan with one difference. With Medicare Select option, all scheduled inpatient hospital stays must be at a Medicare Select Network Hospital in order to have coverage for the $1,068 Medicare Part A deductible.

Only certain hospitals are network providers under this policy. Check with your physician to determine if he or she has admitting privileges at the network hospital. If he or she does not, you may be required to use another physician at the time of hospitalization or if you still use a non-network hospital, you must pay the Part A deductible and any non-covered charges.

If you do not go to a Medicare Select Network Hospital for a scheduled non-emergency hospital stay, you agree to pay the Medicare $1,068 Part A deductible. However, in an emergency admission, you are covered at any hospital, regardless of whether you go to a Medicare Select Network Hospital.

To qualify for a Medicare Select Option, you must live within 30 miles of one of our Medicare Select Network Hospitals.

What are my payment options?
You have two options available to you. You can have your premium payment directly withdrawn monthly from your bank account or you can choose to be billed every month, every two months, every three months, every six months or once a year. Credit card payments are not accepted.

What if I am Medicare Disabled?
If you are under age 65 and Medicare Disabled, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas has an option for you. To be eligible for coverage, you must be under age 65, reside in Texas and have Medicare Parts A and B. You must also apply within six (6) months of your Medicare Part B effective date, or qualify as an Eligible Person. If you meet these conditions, you are eligible for Plan A, which is guaranteed issue (no health questions asked). For more information, please call us at 1-888-731-0415.