Are you a new member? To make using your health plan as easy as possible, there are three simple steps to take now so that you are set when you need care. 

Step 1: Look out for new member information

After you enroll, you should receive these things:

• Welcome Letter – Your letter should arrive soon after you enroll as proof that you are all signed up. Keep it handy until you get your benefit information from us.
• Member ID Card – Your member ID card will be mailed to your home soon after your application is approved. The ID card lists your member number, information on your plan, copays and how to contact us. Keep it on hand and show it to your doctor and pharmacist so they can update their records.
• Policy Kit – You’ll get your policy kit either by mail or email, depending on what you chose when you enrolled. It will outline your plan’s benefits so that you know what’s covered.

Step 2: Activate your coverage

• Pay your first bill - Your benefits won’t be active until you make your first premium payment. After you’ve paid, you can start using your insurance benefits on the first day your plan is effective (the date on your member ID card). Learn about the many ways you can make a payment.
• Set up your online account – Once you have your member ID card, you can register for Blue Access for Member^SM(BAM)– our secure website where you can access claims information and coverage details, order a replacement ID card, find a doctor in your network and more. You can also access BAM on the go through our BCBSTX app. Download the app.

Step 3: Use your benefits!

• Find a doctor in your plan’s network – Your plan has a provider network --the group of doctors, hospitals and other providers that we have contracted with to provide you with health care services. If you go to a provider who is not in your plan’s network, it will cost you more. To find out if your doctor is in-network or if you want to find a new one, use our online Provider Finder®.
• Choose a primary care physician (PCP) – If you have an HMO plan, you will need to select a PCP. PCPs are usually general practice, internal medicine family practice doctors, but they don’t have to be. Women can choose their OB-GYN, and a pediatrician can be your child’s PCP. To choose an in-network PCP, use Provider Finder.
• Know where to get care – Now that you have health insurance, you have a variety of options of where you can get care. Your doctor’s office is generally the best place to go for non-emergency care for problems like colds, flu, sore throats and minor injuries. You can also consider using a walk-in retail health clinic or urgent care center near you. Save the ER for emergencies only.  

Have questions. Reach out to us by…

• Calling the number on the back of your member ID card
• Sending us a secure message through Blue Access for Members
• Sending us a private message through Connect
• Sending us a private message on Facebook or tweet @BCBSTX

Or, you can sign in and comment below. Remember: Anyone can see your comment so don’t include your private information.

Original Publish Date: 7/25/2015