Network Advantages

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

Services received by a participating provider both inside and outside of Western New York are considered in-network through the national Blues network. 

Expanded network (EX) 

For employees who live or work in a Western New York county*, this network offers an extensive variety of quality health care professionals both locally and across the country — all at the same in-network cost. A local primary care physician (PCP) must be on file and seen for routine physical. 

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) / Point-of-Service (POS)

All participating health care services received within the eight counties of Western New York* are considered 'in-network', and are provided at the lowest cost-share available to you. 

Full-network tiered benefit plans 

align: Tiered plans offer lower cost-sharing options for members who choose Kaleida Health hospitals and specialists. 

focus: Tiered plans offer lower cost-sharing options for members who choose Catholic Health hospitals and specialists.

Members also have the option to seek services from any BlueCross BlueShield provider with higher out-of-pocket costs. Both align and focus tiered plans are available to employers in Erie and Niagara counties. 
 

Select network(s)

These are also offered for both align and focus. With this network, employees are required to use Kaleida Health hospitals for align select and Catholic Health hospitals for focus select. Both align and focus select plans are available to employers in Erie and Niagara counties.