Note: This article is for existing providers in the BCBS MA virtual network. New provider enrollment is currently paused, and we're working with BCBS MA on a solution. We’ll share updates if the status changes.
The BCBS MA virtual network allows providers outside of Massachusetts to see BCBS MA clients within a state the provider is licensed in and credentialed with through Headway. These clients can only be seen virtually.
This means that BCBS MA clients have more options when booking with providers, and providers have the opportunity to expand their reach to new clients.
An important note on eligibility
Providers living in Massachusetts are not eligible to join this virtual network with their Massachusetts license. However, Massachusetts licensed providers residing out of state (e.g., Texas) can see clients living in Massachusetts.
How it works
As a provider in the virtual network, you are not officially credentialed with BCBS MA, but can see clients with BCBS MA insurance via telehealth within the state you practice in on Headway. You cannot see clients with Federal Employee Health Plans (FEP plans) via the BCBS MA virtual network. These clients can be seen via your local (not virtual network) BCBS plan.
To hold in-person sessions with BCBS MA clients, please ensure you are credentialed with your local state’s BCBS affiliate. You can review the carriers you’re credentialed with on your Insurance Status page.
Eligibility
Here’s who is eligible to join the BCBS MA virtual network:
- Providers who are licensed and live with a Headway state, and credentialed with at least one carrier
- Providers who do not live in Massachusetts
- Providers who do not hold an LP/LCAT/addiction license
- Providers who practice on Headway virtually (in-person + virtual is allowed)
Client location requirements
Depending on your license status, the client’s location determines eligibility:
-
BCBS MA VNN (licensed in MA)
- Providers licensed in MA but living out of state
- Credentialed with BCBS MA VNN via Headway
- Eligible if: the client lives in Massachusetts, the provider is out of state, and the session is virtual
-
BCBS MA VNN (not licensed in MA)
- Providers not licensed in MA and living out of state
- Credentialed with BCBS MA VNN via Headway
-
Eligible if: the client lives in the provider’s licensed state (e.g., NY), has BCBS MA, and the session is virtual
Some examples
✅ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed and residing in New York and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you can join the BCBS MA virtual network with your New York license.
✅ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed and residing in New York and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you can see clients with BCBS MA insurance who live in New York.
❌ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed and residing in Massachusetts and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you CANNOT join the BCBS MA virtual network. This is because you reside in Massachusetts.
✅ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed in Massachusetts and residing out of state, and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you can join the BCBS MA virtual network.
Rates
You can view the rates for BCBS MA virtual sessions on your rates and agreements page.
Holding in-person sessions with these clients
If you would like to see a BCBS MA client in person, you must be credentialed with the local Blue plan.
For example, a provider in Georgia must be credentialed Anthem BCBS Georgia in order to see BCBS MA clients for in-person sessions.
Joining the virtual network
All eligible providers have automatically been opted in. Beginning August 1st, 2023, all eligible providers will see the BCBS MA virtual network reflected on their Insurance Status page.
Opting out of the virtual network
If you do not wish to participate in the BCBS MA virtual network, you can opt out at any time by visiting your Insurance Status page and clicking the “Opt out” button.
FAQs
You can view what specific insurance your client has by visiting your client roster.