Press Releases

Highmark’s BCBSWNY’s Medicare Advantage plans earn high scores in federal quality program

• New York PPO plans scored 5 out of possible 5 Stars

Buffalo, N.Y. (October 6, 2022) — Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York (BCBSWNY) announced today that its Medicare Advantage PPO plans scored 5 out of a possible 5 stars for the third year in a row by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The health plan’s Medicare Advantage HMO plans scored a 4 out of a possible 5 stars.

Medicare Advantage Plans are evaluated on a scale of one to five. In arriving at the overall annual quality rating, CMS takes into account how well health plans score in five different categories including (1) keeping members healthy and up-to-date on preventive care measures, (2) managing chronic health conditions, (3) member responsiveness (4) handling problems and complaints, and (5) customer service.

"Our Star ratings demonstrate Highmark’s commitment to our members across Western New York," said William Rayball, vice president of Quality for Highmark Federal Business. “Not only are we continuously improving our benefits, networks and pricing year after year, but we are also investing in innovative solutions to drive health outcomes and a positive experience as our members navigate their health journey."

Unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans limit the amount of out-of-pocket contribution a beneficiary is required to make. In addition to covering the same hospital and medical services as Medicare Parts A & B, Highmark Medicare Advantage plans include benefits for preventive care, hearing aids, vision and dental care, and popular fitness memberships.

Highmark offers Medicare plans for every need with multiple price point options and network choices. In 2023, Highmark continues to invest in all its plans, especially the $0 premium products and members will have access to expanded services offered with the most popular supplemental benefits, including vision, comprehensive dental, hearing, and allowances for over-the-counter items plus acupuncture and massage. Medicare members will continue to enjoy complimentary gym memberships and amenities at participating fitness centers through SilverSneakers. 

The annual election period for seniors to choose Medicare Advantage coverage for next year runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.

Consumers can learn more about the CMS Star ratings at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website.

Detailed descriptions of all Highmark Medicare Advantage plans, including network and pricing, are available at bcbswny.com/Medicare in Western New York, and bsneny.com/Medicare in Northeastern New York.