Shopping for Health Insurance FAQs

BCBSMT makes it easy to find a plan that’s right for you. Explore our user-friendly site to learn about Gold, Silver and Bronze level options. See which one best fits your medical needs and budget. You can sign up during annual Open Enrollment or during the Special  Enrollment Period if you have a qualifying life event (get married, have a baby, change jobs). 

The Marketplace is a federal government website that helps people find health insurance coverage. You can compare prices, benefits, out-of-pocket costs and more for plans in your area — including ones offered by BCBSMT. You can also buy a health plan directly from BCBSMT online or by calling us at 1-855-591-1515. Remember, Open Enrollment is the only time to sign up unless you experience a qualifying life event. 

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If you are about to turn 65, you can first sign up 3 months before your birthday. People who have a disability, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) or End-Stage Renal disease are eligible earlier.

First, you’ll need to sign up for original Medicare — Part A (Hospital) and Part B (Medical Insurance) — online at socialsecurity.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. If you want to add extra coverage to handle costs not covered by original Medicare, you can consider Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Medicare Part D (prescription drug) plans. There are many options offered by private insurance companies like BCBSMT. Visit our Medicare site for options and to compare plans. We can even help you navigate your Medicare journey. 

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If you want to cancel a medical or dental policy that you purchased on the Health Insurance Marketplace, call 1-800-318-2596. If you want to cancel your entire policy, you have 10 days to do so under the “Free Look Period.” Call BCBSMT Customer Service at 1-855-258-8471. 

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You can purchase a Medicare Supplement (also called Medigap) plan from a private health insurance company like BCBSMT. A variety of Medicare Supplement plans (A – N) help pay for health care costs not covered by Medicare Part A and Part B. You’ll save on coinsurance, copayments and deductibles.

The best time to buy a Medicare Supplement insurance plan is when you first become eligible, up to one year before your 65th birthday. Your coverage begins the same day your Medicare Part B coverage starts. Get a quote and apply or request an agent. 

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In Montana, people who qualify for Medicaid can receive their health care coverage through Montana Medicaid. To see if you are eligible, apply online or call 1-888-706-1535.  

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Montana Medicaid and Healthy Montana Kids Plus
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In Montana, children who are eligible for Medicaid can receive their health care coverage through Health Montana Kids.  Apply online or call 1-888-706-1535.  

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Montana Medicaid and Healthy Montana Kids Plus
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If you are new to the company, you can sign up for a group plan when you are first hired. After that, employers hold an open enrollment once a year. It gives employees a period of time (usually 2 weeks) to review their available health care options and update their plan. Managers should remind employees to review their selections and make sure they have the health insurance they want before the company renews policies for the next year. After open enrollment, employees must have a qualifying “life event” to change their coverage. 

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A licensed and authorized BCBSMT agent can answer questions and help you with your health care coverage. Request an agent and one will reach out to you. 

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You can find all your BCBSMT health insurance options, compare prices and sign up in 1 convenient place. We offer a wide variety of plans and coverage: individual and family, Medicare, Medicaid, group, dental and vision, student health and more. Go to bcbsmt.com. 

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Premium tax credits are available to individuals and families with a household income between the federal poverty line and 400% of the poverty line. Recipients must be U.S. citizens or lawful residents who purchased a Health Insurance Marketplace plan.

You’re not eligible if you can receive affordable coverage through your job or qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or TRICARE. Find out more about how premium tax credits may help you.  

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When you sign up for BCBSMT individual and family coverage, you can add a dental benefit to your plan. BlueDental plans cover checkups, cleanings, basic X-rays, fillings, bridges and crowns. You can lower your dental costs 30% to 50% each time you use a network dentist. Remember, you must add dental coverage when you first choose your BCBSMT health care plan. You can’t add it to an existing plan later.  

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With a BCBSMT health plan, adults are covered for 1 vision exam per year. Check your plan for details about your coverage and remember to use an in-network provider to take advantage of your vision benefits. BCBSMT members also have access to eyewear discounts. If you need more frequent eye exams or treatments, consider additional vision coverage. You can sign up through Blue Access for Members℠. 

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All our health plans will cover your essential health benefits and services. That said, you’ll want to find the one best suited to you and your family’s needs. Learn more about your choices and how to make your best decision.  

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