After significant efforts over several years, we have finally reached a fair contractual agreement with Blue Shield. That contract took effect on March 15, 2011.

Anesthesia care provided before that date (i.e., dates of service March 14th and earlier) will not be convered under the contract. Because of this, Blue Shield may send payments directly to you with the intent that you forward these funds on to fulfill your financial obligation for the anesthesia services provided. (This method of sending the check to you is more along the lines of how your homeowners or car insurance would work if you filed a claim.) Usually you will need to resolve any billing issues with Blue Shield directly, as that is their preference in resolving medical billing issues. ABC will be available to guide you through this process, but normally cannot act on your behalf.

If you were to need to file any appeals for these earlier dates, which we would hope are not necessary, you will still need to be involved in the process. If your coverage is through your work, your HR manager usually would be able to assist you with any issues that may arise.