If you choose the Indemnity Medical option, your benefits are higher when you take advantage of the Blue Cross Prudent Buyer network of preferred providers (called a PPO); or the Blue Cross Blue Shield Nationwide Network if you live outside of California.

PPO hospitals, doctors, clinics and medical labs agree by contract to accept reduced rates and fee ceilings (which means important savings to TBT and you).

When you use non-PPO providers, claims are paid based on a percentage of Usual, Customary and Reasonable (UCR) rates which usually means your out-of-pocket costs will be higher.

The Schedule of Benefits in the Summary of Coverage shows the difference between PPO and non-PPO benefits under the Indemnity Medical option.

It's your responsibility to make sure that you are using PPO providers if you want benefits to be paid at the lower PPO rates.

To locate the nearest PPO hospitals, doctors, medical labs and clinics, check the Blue Cross Network Provider directory available through the TBT Plan Administration Office.

Since the hospital list and participating providers are subject to change, check that a doctor or hospital is a PPO provider before receiving services by calling Blue Cross toll-free at (888) 887-3725.
If you live outside of California call the Blue Cross Blue Shield Nationwide Network at (800) 810-2583.

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