FAQ

1. Do I need to be a Manitoba resident to apply for these plans?

You must be a Manitoba resident, registered with and entitled to benefits from Manitoba Health to apply for the plans.

2. When do benefits become effective?

Dependant upon the plan, your benefits will become effective the first of the month following a 3 month waiting period. For the Basic Blue, Medi Blue and Medi Blue Deluxe plans, there is a three month unpaid waiting period. For the Plus Plan, Plus Plan Deluxe and GenX plans, there is a three month paid waiting period.

3. What do I need to provide if I am losing my coverage from another plan?(When should I apply?)

If you have coverage through another plan, we ask that you send us a letter from the other carrier listing family members on the plan, the coverage and when the plan ends. If the other coverage was through Manitoba Blue Cross, no letter is required, however, we will ask for your contract number. We can waive the waiting period, provided you have similar coverage and you apply within 60 days of losing the other coverage.

4. Do I have to list everyone in my family on the application to be eligible for benefits?

You are required to list your spouse and all eligible dependents on the application.

5. Can I change my coverage?

If you wish to upgrade your plan, the change becomes effective in accordance with the enrollment rules for the product chosen. If you downgrade your plan, the change will become effective on the first of the month follwing the date notification is received.

6. How do I cancel?

The coverage will be cancelled on the last day of the month following 30 days from receipt of the request. You can cancel over the phone, send a letter or come down in person at our office.

7. Can I reapply if I want to?

Unless you are cancelling due to obtaining other coverage, you will not be able to re-enroll in the same plan for two years from the date of cancellation.

8. If I pay up front for my claim, can I be reimbursed directly into my bank account?

You can apply to have your claim payments deposited directly into your bank account. You can do this by registering for Customer E-Service through www.mb.bluecross.ca

9. When can I add dependants or spouse to my plan?

If you report the change within 30 days of the person becoming eligible, the change will take place the day they became eligible.

10. How do I pay for premiums? Do you accept credit cards for payment?

You can receive bills directly at your home or you may have the costs debited automatically from your bank account. At this time, credit cards are not accepted as a form of payment.

11. Can I see my claims online?

Once you have registered for Customer E-Service, you will have access to your current claims history. Through this electronic service, you can gain quick access to your plan information, and benefit details. For more information, visit www.mb.bluecross.ca.

12. What is Blue Advantage?

Blue Advantage helps Blue Cross members take advantage of cost savings on medical, vision and healthcare purchases offered by participating providers across Canada. Simply present your Blue Cross identification card to the provider to receive the savings! For more information on this program, go to www.blueadvantage.ca