Take a Closer Look at Blue Shield of California’s Virtual Blue Plan

A year ago, Blue Shield of California collaborated with Accolade and TeleMed2U to launch Virtual Blue, a new initiative aimed at improving members’ access to the virtual healthcare industry.

After completing its initial year, Blue Shield of California has reported positive outcomes in its Virtual Blue program, as reported by the M. D. of the healthcare provider. Individuals in a more traditional PPO plan were less inclined to visit their primary care physicians in comparison to members. Blue Shield of California observed a 31% rise in primary care claims in 2023 compared to the previous year for individuals who switched from a conventional plan to Virtual Blue and had a virtual appointment with a healthcare provider.

Individuals who join Virtual Blue can schedule virtual appointments with their clinician without paying a copayment, allowing them to conveniently fit important appointments into their busy schedules. Blue Shield of California also mentioned that they provide in-person care if needed or if the member prefers it.

Blue Shield of California and Accolade Team Up To Introduce a Virtual-First Healthcare Plan

Nina Birnbaum, M.D., medical director for innovation acceleration at Blue Shield of California and a practicing PCP, announced in a public meeting that the team aims to “enhance the linkage to primary care,” with encouraging first-year results.

We view it as an extra expense, but it’s the type of additional expense we welcome in the healthcare system, as it facilitates the development of long-term relationships for individuals.

Impact of Virtual Care on Blue Shield of California’s Healthcare 

Blue Shield of California discovered that as individuals increased their use of primary care visits, their reliance on emergency care decreased. Claims for Virtual Blue members in the emergency room decreased by 11% more than non-users of virtual care.

Furthermore, the online platforms enabled users to schedule appointments faster, with approximately 66% confirmed in just one day. Blue Shield reports that, on average, people have to wait between three and four weeks for an in-person appointment.

The insurance company discovered that 85% of Virtual Blue members underwent screening for behavioral health needs during a virtual primary care appointment. 

The program offers thorough mental and behavioral health services for individuals aged 4 and above.

Blue Shield of California reported that Virtual Blue users had a care cost that was 8% to 10% lower than those who did not use virtual care.

Birnbaum noted that a significant lesson for the insurance company in the previous year is that Virtual Blue is gaining popularity among a wider audience than expected. She mentioned that Blue Shield has experienced “incredible progress” with school districts, unionized employers, gas stations, and grocery stores.

She mentioned that individuals in service positions, such as, value the flexibility of scheduling and the option to book appointments that align with their availability.

She stated that the lesson was very inspiring and they are working to learn from it and increase access to more people.

Expanding Access and Market Opportunities With the Virtual Blue Program 

Having achieved a year of positive outcomes, Blue Shield of California is now considering methods to expand access to the program for a larger audience. Birnbaum stated that the insurance company views promising potential in markets outside of the employer sector, like Medicare Advantage and Medicaid.

She mentioned that virtual options make navigating healthcare easier for patients of all types, which is a significant obstacle for them.

Birnbaum of Blue Shield of California also stressed that the healthcare system is letting people down. No matter how excellent the healthcare may be, if you cannot access it, you will not be able to enjoy its advantages.

Looking for a reliable platform that can provide health news and medical updates in the healthcare industry? Discover the latest in health news with a single click. Follow DistilINFO HealthPlan and stay ahead with updates on medical advancements. Join our community today!

FAQs

• What is Blue Shield of California’s Virtual Blue Plan?

Ans. The Virtual Blue Plan from Blue Shield of California, created in partnership with Accolade and TeleMed2U, offers members easy access to virtual healthcare services. The goal is to enhance access to primary care and decrease the dependence on emergency care.

• What are the benefits of joining Blue Shield of California’s Virtual Blue Plan?

Ans. Virtual Blue members can arrange virtual appointments with healthcare providers without copays, have faster appointment scheduling, and benefit from lower costs of care in comparison to virtual care non-users.

• How has Blue Shield of California observed the impact of Virtual Blue on healthcare utilization?

Ans. Blue Shield of California observed a 31% rise in primary care claims from people who switched to Virtual Blue from traditional plans. Furthermore, Virtual Blue users saw an 11% reduction in trips to the emergency room in comparison to those who did not utilize virtual care, showing a favorable change in how healthcare services are being utilized.