Good News for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Customers

Today the Arizona Department of Insurance (DOI) announced that insurers may renew grandmothered plans – affecting members who purchased plans between March 24, 2010, and December 31, 2013, for up to two years.

We are very pleased to announce this decision.  It provides Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona customers choice, as well as peace of mind if they want to keep their existing plans, until the end of 2015.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona will extend grandmothered plans for at least one year and assess the impact for subsequent years. As always, we will provide updates as decisions are made.

If you are a Blue Cross Blue Shield non-group customer, you will continue to follow their standard renewal process. You can expect to receive a renewal notice and information about any changes to benefits or rates. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona’s goal is to make sure you understand their options.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona issued the following media statement.

“We are very pleased with the Arizona Department of Insurance (DOI) announcement today,” said Jeff Stelnik, a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ) senior vice president. The DOI released a statement giving insurers the option to renew plans that would otherwise have been cancelled under the Affordable Care Act. 

Members affected are those who purchased plans between March 24, 2010, and Dec. 31, 2013. 

“We support the decision and will renew effective plans on their renewal date. It aligns with what we advocate for everyday—giving our members choice,” Stelnik said.

As a BCBSAZ member, you can expect to receive ongoing communication about what this means to you and your family.  At the time of renewal, you will receive information about any changes to your plans or your premiums.

Our goal here at Ronstadt Insurance, Inc.,  is to make sure you understand your options.   If you have any questions, please contact us at (520) 721-4848.