You can select between BlueCross BlueShield and Cigna for claims administration services. Your cost share is determined by the plan you choose, i.e. PPO or CDHP. Covered and excluded services are the same regardless of the plan, carrier, or network. However, BCBST and Cigna have their own medical policies, so medically necessary determinations may vary. The other difference between BCBST and Cigna is the networks of providers they offer.
You can select between two efficient networks BCBST Network S or Cigna LocalPlus. These are efficient networks, and you will save money with them in premiums and claims costs. If your providers are in these networks, either may be your best choice.
Your other network options are BCBST Network P and Cigna Open Access Plus. If you can’t find your providers in the efficient networks, then you could consider these expanded networks. The primary difference between the efficient and expanded networks is the selection of hospitals. Remember that you can go to any hospital in an emergency, even out of network, and receive in-network benefits and cost-sharing. An additional monthly cost for the expanded networks is added to the monthly premium. For all health plan options, the 2026 additional monthly costs will be:
- Employee-only tier – $90 per month
- Employee+child(ren) tier – $100 per month
- Employee+spouse and employee+spouse+child(ren) coverage tiers – $180 per month