Notice of Portability and Conversion Rights for applicants who have lost group health coverage or who are transferring from a Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield plan in another state

Portability

If you terminated your group health plan (employer provided health coverage) or COBRA continuation coverage within the past 63 days, you may be eligible for Individual Portability Coverage . [PDF]

Individual Portability Coverage does not require medical underwriting. There is no waiting period for pre-existing conditions or normal maternity services. However, you must meet specific criteria to qualify for this coverage. Among other things, BCBSAZ must receive your application for portability coverage within 63 days of the termination date of your group coverage or any COBRA continuation coverage. Also, premiums for portability health plans are substantially higher than premiums for underwritten plans.

You may apply for both underwritten coverage and portability coverage. Because the medical underwriting process can take longer than 63 days, if you are eligible for portability coverage, you may wish to purchase portability coverage while your application for underwritten coverage is being processed. This way, you will avoid loss of your portability rights if BCBSAZ does not approve you for an underwritten policy.

Conversion Coverage

If you terminated BCBSAZ group coverage or any coverage from another Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield plan within the past 31 days, you may be eligible for Conversion Coverage. Individual Conversion Coverage does not require medical underwriting, but has higher premium rates and different benefits from your previous coverage. To remain eligible for Conversion Coverage, BCBSAZ must receive your Conversion Coverage application within 31 days of notice of termination from your BCBSAZ group or other Blue Cross and/or Blue Shield coverage.

More Information

To request brochures and applications for Individual Portability Coverage or conversion coverage, please click here or call BCBSAZ.