A Reminder About Your Health Coverage When Traveling Outside the U.S.

If you plan to travel internationally for work or vacation, it’s important to understand how your Health Plan coverage works when traveling outside the U.S.

The Health Plan’s benefits are global, but before you travel, it may be helpful to call and confirm your benefits and coverage details. Here is some helpful information should you require medical services while traveling abroad.

All Inpatient Admissions Outside the U.S. Require Pre-Authorization

Pre-authorization is required for all inpatient admissions when receiving services outside the United States. However, pre-authorization is not required for short-term observation in an emergency room, even when it extends into the next day. To obtain pre-authorization or to inquire about whether pre-authorization is necessary, you or your providers should call Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core at (800) 810-2583.

It is your and your provider’s responsibility to secure the necessary authorization prior to submitting your claim. Generally, the hospital will require you to pay upfront prior to discharge. If you have received the necessary authorization, your claim will be processed and paid subject to the Health Plan rules for out-of-network benefits. If you are unable to obtain pre-authorization due to emergency circumstances, you and your provider can request a post-service utilization management review with Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core.

Submitting Claims for Services Received Outside the U.S.

When receiving medical services outside the United States, you will need to submit a medical claim that includes the following three items:
  1. a completed international claim form available at dgaplans.org/forms/health;
  2. an itemized bill that includes your name and date of birth, provider name and address, description of service and diagnosis code(s) (provided by the doctor), and the billed amount for each service; and
  3. your proof of payment.
The above information must then be submitted directly to Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core as described below. Please ensure that all claims information is clear and legible to prevent delays in processing. It is recommended that you submit your claim by email, mobile app or online to have proof of your submission.
  • Email: claims@bcbsglobalcore.com (RECOMMENDED)
  • Mobile Phone: Download the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core mobile app from your applicable app store (RECOMMENDED)
  • Online: bcbsglobalcore.com (RECOMMENDED)
  • Mail: Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core, Service Center, P.O. Box 2048, Southeastern, PA 19399
Do not submit your claims to the Health Plan office. If you have questions about your claim submission, please contact Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core at (800) 810-2583 or collect at (804) 673-1177. If you encounter any issues with Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core, please contact the Health Plan for assistance at (323) 866-2200, Ext. 401.

Before Your Trip

To help make accessing your international coverage smoother, before your trip, consider taking the following steps:

  • Obtain a current physical and digital copy of your Health Plan ID card. For instructions, visit www.dgaplans.org/how-to-get-your-benefits-cards/.
  • Download the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core mobile app.
  • Save the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core Service Center number (1-800-810-2583) in your phone.