CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Small group updates
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Optometry·Provider Update
Effective date
Jan 1, 2020
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI is implementing significant small group plan changes effective January 1, 2020, including new tiered provider networks, deductible increases, out-of-pocket limit changes, and copay modifications for vision services. The changes also include removal of free sick visits from VantageBlue plans and addition of acupuncture coverage to platinum VantageBlue plans.
Action Required
By January 1, 2020: Billing team must verify provider tier status using BCBSRI Provider Finder for Network Blue New England Options plans and update patient benefit verification processes to reflect new deductible amounts, out-of-pocket limits, and vision copay structures. Update encounter forms to remove VantageBlue free sick visit benefits and add acupuncture coverage for applicable platinum plans.