Medicare AdvantageCoverageHigh impact
2026 BlueCHiP for Medicare Changes
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI·Provider Update
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BlueCross BlueShield Rhode Island is making significant changes to their 2026 Medicare Advantage plans, including $0 copays for telemedicine visits and mammograms, new pharmacy deductibles, extended inpatient cost sharing, and a mandatory switch from One Touch to Abbott for diabetic supplies. Several plans are being consolidated or terminated, requiring member transitions.
Action Required
By January 1, 2026: Update billing systems to reflect $0 copays for all telemedicine visits, specialist visits, mental health, substance abuse services, and mammograms for BlueCHiP Medicare members. Before October 1, 2025: Begin transitioning diabetic patients from One Touch to Abbott supplies and meters to ensure smooth 2026 transition. Update patient records to reflect plan consolidations - BlueCHiP Medicare Value members move to Enhanced, Plus members move to Extra, and Preferred plan members must select new plans. Front desk staff must verify updated member ID numbers remain the same for consolidated plans.