Member Benefits

Telehealth

We cover telehealth visits for members, including behavioral health visits with a counselor or therapist. Telehealth gives you the freedom to get treatment without going to your doctor’s office. A telehealth visit can be a phone call with your doctor or a video call using your smartphone, computer or an app. 

A man discusses his health care options with a physician online

Telehealth isn’t appropriate for emergencies, such as heart attack or stroke, broken bones, deep cuts or anything that will need hands-on treatment.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms, such as a fever or cough, see if your doctor offers telehealth. He or she can give you advice on staying home or getting tested.

To find a behavioral health specialist in your area, visit our Find a Doctor page. Enter “behavioral health counselor” and your ZIP code for a list of network providers. We cover mental health services for mild to moderate behavioral health needs.
 

MDLive® virtual visits

Starting January 1, 2023, Blue Cross Complete will cover telehealth appointments with MDLive at no cost to members. MDLive can connect members to a health care professional 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for medical care that is not an emergency.

To sign up for MDLive or connect to an MDLive health care provider:

  • Download the MDLive mobile app. It’s available for iPhone and Android smartphones at no cost. Search for ‘MDLIVE’ on the App Store® or Google Play™.
  • Go online to mdlive.com/bcc.
  • Call toll free: 1-833-599-0443 (TTY: 1-800-770-5531)
  • Text TELEDR to 635483.*

You can start using MDLive right after you sign up and start your account. You can choose a doctor, see available appointment times and set up a visit. Be sure to fill out your medical history before your visit to help your MDLive doctor give you the care you need.

MDLive’s health care providers can help with over 80 routine medical conditions, including:

  • Allergies
  • Cold symptoms
  • Fever
  • Flu
  • Pink eye
  • Rash
  • Respiratory issues
  • Sinus infections
  • Sore throat
  • Urinary tract infections (for female members ages 18 and older)
  • And more

For more information, view MDLive’s frequently asked questions.

MDLive is not for medical emergencies. In case of a medical emergency, call 911.

Telehealth means you can connect with a provider outside of the office. Ask your provider* if you can:

  • Video chat with your provider through a computer, tablet or smartphone.
  • Text with your provider through a secure web portal.
  • Talk to your provider by phone.

*Not all providers offer telehealth services.

For an appointment with your provider by video, you'll need a computer, tablet or smartphone with a camera and an internet connection.

There are certain services that you can complete by a phone call with your provider.

As a Blue Cross Complete member (if you qualify), you can get a smartphone at no cost to you that can help you use telehealth services. The benefit also includes monthly data and minutes, unlimited text messaging and no-cost calls to Blue Cross Complete’s Customer Service.

To learn more about this program and to apply, view the SafeLink Flyer (PDF).

An Emergency Broadband Benefit is available with unlimited talk, text, data and international calling for a limited time. Current SafeLink users already qualify and can opt in. New users should apply for SafeLink service to get started. View the SafeLink EBB Flyer in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF) to learn more.

If you have questions about SafeLink, call Customer Service at 1-800-228-8554, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. TTY users should call 1-888-987-5832.

Try these tips to help you get the most out of your telehealth session:

  • Get ready. Find a private, quiet place and let others know you can’t be disturbed.
  • Test your gear before the session begins to make sure you have good connectivity. Would you feel more comfortable wearing headphones or earbuds?
  • Come prepared with any questions, symptoms to share and something to write down the provider’s recommendations.

 

*Message and data rates may apply based on any agreements you have with your network service provider.