Blue Cross Blue Shield Review

America's largest health insurance network with plans available in all 50 states. Independent Blue Cross Blue Shield review: 4.7/5 for health insurance.

By Michael Hewitt, Founder & Editor-in-Chief.

Our verdict

If network size decides it for you, Blue Cross Blue Shield has the largest provider network in the country and plans in all 50 states. The catch is that plans vary a lot by state affiliate, and premiums can run higher than newer competitors. Judge your local affiliate's plan, not the brand.

Skip it if a lower premium matters more to you than network size.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield

America's largest health insurance network with plans available in all 50 states. Blue Cross Blue Shield is offered by BCBS Association. Our editorial rating is 4.7 out of 5.

Best for: Anyone who wants the widest provider network.

Editorial grade: A (composite score 91/100).

Highlights

Available in all 50 states with local plans
More than 2 million doctors and hospitals contract with BCBS companies
Individual, family, and employer plans

What we like

Broadest provider network nationwide
Plans available everywhere in the U.S.
Strong financial stability and brand recognition

Where it falls short

Plans vary significantly by state affiliate
Premiums can be higher than newer competitors

Fees, minimums, and rates

Monthly fee: Varies by plan and state. Minimum to open: N/A. Rates and promotional offers change often, so check the provider's own page before you apply.

How we reviewed it

This is a desk review: we have not opened an account with BCBS Association. It is built from BCBS Association's published rates, fee schedule and terms and from the public complaint record, and compared with the other products in the Health Insurance shortlist. The rubric is the same for every brand.

Similar products to compare

Read our full editorial methodology for how we review products.