BlueCard

If you choose a CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield PPO or POS plan, you are automatically enrolled in the BlueCard program, which offers you access to providers and hospitals nationwide.

With your BlueCross and BlueShield member ID card, you have access to the more than 95% of national providers and hospitals throughout the United States contract with BCBS association plans.

Within the United States:

1. Always carry your current member ID card for access to service.
2. To locate providers near you, use our Find A Doctor tool or call BlueCard Access at 800-810-2583.
3. To obtain prior authorization or pre-certification when needed, call Member Services at the phone number on your ID card (it’s different from the BlueCard Access number listed in Step 2).
4. Present your member ID card when you arrive at the participating provider’s office so the provider can identify your benefits:
   

   Traditional Benefits

   

   Preferred Provider Organization Benefits

5. You should not have to complete any claim forms or pay up front for medical services other than the usual out-of-pocket expenses. CareFirst will send you a complete Explanation of Benefits (EOB).

Global Core

Just like your passport, you should always carry your CareFirst member ID card when you travel outside the United States. The BlueCross BlueShield Global Core (Global Core) program is included in every CareFirst plan and provides medical assistance services and access to providers, hospitals and other healthcare professionals in nearly 200 countries.

The process is the same as if you were in the United States, with the following exceptions:

1. In most cases, at Global Core hospitals, you shouldn’t have to pay up front for inpatient care and the hospital should submit your claim. You are responsible for the usual out-of-pocket expenses.
2. At non-Global Core hospitals, you pay the provider or hospital for inpatient care, outpatient hospital care and other medical services. To be reimbursed, you'll need to complete an international claim form (PDF) and send it to the Global Core Service Center.
3. To find a Global Core provider outside the United States, visit BlueCross BlueShield and click on "Find a Doctor or Hospital."

Medical assistance when outside the United States

Call 800-810-2583 for information on doctors, hospitals, other healthcare professionals, or to schedule an appointment or arrange hospitalization if necessary. Available 24/7.

Mobile App

With the BlueCross BlueShield Global Core mobile app, world travelers have convenient access to doctors, hospitals and resources around the world. At a glance, you can find doctors, translate medical terms, and access local emergency information.