Blue Distinction® Centers
Our health plan includes access to Blue Distinction® Centers — hospitals recognized nationally for their quality and expertise in specific types of care. When you need one of these specialty inpatient procedures, using a Blue Distinction Center gives you the highest level of coverage.
- Blue Distinction Center: Healthcare facilities recognized for their expertise in delivering specialty care
- Blue Distinction Center+: Healthcare facilities recognized for their expertise and efficiency in delivering specialty care
| Procedure | Covered Locations* |
|---|---|
| Bariatric Surgery Cardiac Care | Blue Distinction Centers+ |
| Knee and Hip Replacement | Blue Distinction Centers+ Blue Distinction Centers |
* Refer to the BCBS Blue Distinction Center Rider for more information.
How Do I Find a Distinction Center & What Will I Pay?
Before you have a procedure, such as a knee or hip replacement, click here to find Blue Distinction Centers near you. This will help you and your doctor choose the right center for you.
- PPO 80: Your deductible and coinsurance will be waived if you use the Blue Distinction Program for a knee and hip replacement or cardiac and bariatric centers.*
- PPO 70: Your deductible and coinsurance will be waived if you use the Blue Distinction Program for a knee and hip replacement or cardiac and bariatric centers.*
- HDHP: Your coinsurance will be waived if you use the Blue Distinction Program for a knee and hip replacement or cardiac and bariatric center.*
When you use a Blue Distinction Center, your facility charges for these inpatient services are covered at no cost to you — your deductible does not apply (except for the HDHP medical plan, only the co-insurance will be waived). If you choose a hospital that is not a Blue Distinction Center, your costs will be higher.
*Note: This program applies only to the hospital/facility portion of your stay. Doctor/surgeon fees follow your regular plan benefits.
Reminders:
- This program applies only to inpatient specialty hospital stays for the listed services.
- Pre‑admission approval from BCBS is required for non‑emergency admissions.
- Using a Blue Distinction Center helps you get quality care and significantly lowers what you pay.
- Blue Distinction Center Finder: bcbs.com/innovations/bluedistinction/center-list/selector-map.html
- Call the number on your BCBS member ID card for help.
- Refer to the BCBS Blue Distinction Center Rider for more information.
