Excellus BCBS Broker News Vol. 19 No. 11 - Special Issue 2

Contract Reached with WellNow Urgent Care

Excellus BCBS is pleased to announce that they have executed a new provider contract agreement with Wellnow Urgent Care. Starting on November 15, WellNow Urgent Care will be in-network. Excellus wants members to find the care they need if they are sick or injured. To learn more about your care options, please visit here.

‍

Member Resources

While Excellus BCBS continues to engage in contract discussions with some doctors and hospitals, they remain focused on reaching an agreement that is fair for all parties involved. This is a normal part of doing business and can occur each year, or every few years.

They request that your trust remains with them and the strong network they have built across the Upstate New York regions, which includes 98 percent of local providers.

In keeping the focus on you, Excellus would like to share resources that ensure you feel supported now while discussions are ongoing and into the future. They encourage you to visit these website pages, utilize the services that are listed, and to contact them should you have other questions.

• Provider Updates: The Provider Contract Updates page will provide ongoing updates and insights into the contracting negotiations, ensuring you and members are well-informed.
• Care Options: The Care Options page includes information on:
  • In-network vs. out-of-network care
  • The importance of primary care doctors
  • Urgent Care options in your community
  • Information on accessing telehealth services
• Telemedicine offerings: Telehealth and Telemedicine gives members the option of having a virtual doctor visit by telephone, email or video chat for various conditions. Plan coverage and cost may vary.
  • Telehealth with your doctor: Many doctors may offer telehealth services via telephone, video, or e-mail. We recommend members call their provider for more details.
  • Telemedicine with MDLIVE®: Excellus BCBS has partnered with MDLIVE to give members 24/7 access to US board certified doctors for non-emergency medical services. MDLIVE also provides care with psychiatrists and other mental health providers for behavioral health conditions.
• Resource Centers: With locations in New Hartford, Greece, and Johnson City, Resource Centers offer free in-person support to all Excellus BCBS members. Customer care representatives are available to answer questions about coverage, benefits or billing. Seminars and education events are also offered here. For a list of locations and hours, visit in person.

As always, if you have any questions about the network, plans, or benefits, please reach out to your account consultant.

‍