Blue Cross MA Expands Primary Care Network Amid Provider Shortages

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross) has added three physician groups to its primary care network to increase member access to care amid provider shortages.

Most Blue Cross members will have access to Eden Health, On Belay Health Solutions, and VillageMD physicians. The physician groups are participating in the payer’s value-based payment program and will provide members with access to virtual and in-person primary care.

“Our focus is on building a network of comprehensive primary care solutions that provide our members with the simpler, more consumer-focused experience they’re looking for,” Lisa Glenn, vice president of network partnerships and innovation for Blue Cross, said in the press release. “At a time when it’s hard to schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, we’re working hard to give our members more options and enable greater access to convenient, high-quality care.”

Like the rest of the country, Massachusetts is facing a primary care physician shortage as patient demand increases and more providers are leaving the field.

The addition of the physician groups will help combat the care barriers patients are facing and boost access to value-based primary care. Blue Cross members can access telehealth services, chronic disease care, care navigation support, and mental health services through the provider groups.

“On Belay and our value-based provider partners are proud to be part of Blue Cross’ efforts to expand access to comprehensive primary care,” said Andrew Allison, co-founder and chief executive officer of On Belay Health Solutions.

“Value-based care models enable primary care providers to play a more proactive role in overall patient care, improving health outcomes and creating better patient experiences. Together, we can better ensure patients get the timely, robust care they need across their entire health care journey.”

Members can use MyBlue, the Blue Cross online member portal, to learn about their available care options.

“We’re committed to being a trusted ally to our members, guiding them to clinicians who provide high-quality care,” said Ashley Yeats, MD, vice president of medical operations for Blue Cross. “As we accelerate our efforts to bring more primary care options to meet demand, adding these innovative physician groups to our network is essential.”

This move builds on Blue Cross’ previous initiatives to improve access to virtual care. The payer announced a virtual care team feature in September 2022, which allows members to access primary care providers virtually and in person through two healthcare providers, Carbon Health and Firefly Health.

The payer said it will continue to expand its network offerings in 2023 to help meet members’ care needs.