The Independence Blue Cross virtual network allows providers to see Independence Blue Cross clients within a state the provider is licensed in and credentialed with through Headway. These clients can only be seen virtually.
This means that Independence Blue Cross 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
You can live in and be credentialed in Pennsylvania to join this virtual network. Your client can live in Pennsylvania and be seen through the Independence Blue Cross virtual network.
How it works
As a provider in the virtual network, you are not officially credentialed with Independence Blue Cross, but can see clients with Independence Blue Cross insurance via telehealth within the state you practice in on Headway.
To hold in-person sessions with Independence Blue Cross 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 Independence Blue Cross virtual network:
- Providers who are licensed and live with a Headway state, and credentialed with at least one carrier
- Providers who do not hold an LP/LCAT/addiction license
- Providers who practice on Headway virtually (in-person + virtual is allowed)
Some examples
✅ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed in New York and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you can join the Independence Blue Cross virtual network.
✅ If you are an LMFT provider credentialed in New York and fully credentialed with Cigna, practicing virtually and in-person, you can see clients with Independence Blue Cross insurance who live in New York.
Rates
You can view the rates for Independence Blue Cross virtual sessions on your rates and agreements page.
Holding in-person sessions with these clients
If you would like to see a Independence Blue Cross 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 Independence Blue Cross clients for in-person sessions.
Joining the virtual network
All eligible providers will be able to opt into the Independence Blue Cross virtual network via a pop-up in the provider portal. If you don't see the option, let us know.
If opted in, providers will see the Independence Blue Cross virtual network reflected on their Insurance Status page as of January 1, 2025.
Opting out of the virtual network
If you do not wish to participate in the Independence Blue Cross virtual network, you can opt out at any time by visiting your Insurance Status page and clicking the Opt out button.