Network Access

Anthem Blue Cross maintains networks of health care providers for the delivery of various medical services to members. One of these networks, a preferred provider organization (“PPO”) network known as the “Prudent Buyer Network”, is a geographically extensive network, providing coverage in 98% of all California zip codes. Anthem Blue Cross is unique in the marketplace because of the large network access we provide our customers. More providers mean greater savings and better control of quality medical care for injured workers. Each of the participating providers have executed an agreement which requires that health care services be provided to members covered for workers’ compensation benefit plans offered by Anthem Blue Cross and other affiliates.

WCS started off with the network strength of Anthem Blue Cross (which includes physicians, hospitals, chiropractors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, mental health practitioners, durable medical equipment suppliers, clinical laboratories, skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies), to respond to the special requirements of workers’ compensation by adding a network of “FRONTLINE” providers (Industrial Medical Clinics) that specialize in Occupational Medicine. THe network includes:

WCS started off with the network strength of Anthem Blue Cross and enhanced it to effectively deal with the specific requirements and regulations associated with workers’ compensation in California. Anthem Blue Cross network is the largest network in California including:

In excess of 400 "Frontline" Providers - Industrial Medical Clinics
Over 400 participating hospitals
More than 300 ambulatory surgery centers
45,000 physicians
Ancillary networks for physical therapy, chiropractors, MRI diagnostics, etc.

Additionally, the majority of Anthem Blue Cross’s Institutional providers, and many of the other contracts, contain “lesser of “ language that allows Anthem Blue Cross to provide customers with the benefits of the contract rate or California Fee Schedule pricing, whichever provides the greatest savings to our customer.