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Blue Shield Medical and Dental Plan Updates
Carrier Updates
Thursday, January 22 2026
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Blue Shield has shared that starting January 2026, Small Group Off-Exchange PPO plans will feature:

Expanded Virtual Care: Virtual Blue will replace Teladoc and NurseHelp 24/7 upon renewal, providing same-day primary care, fast specialist access, and 24/7 support.

Enhanced Oncology Management: A new Oncology Utilization Management Program will promote high-quality, cost-effective cancer care while reducing provider administrative burden.

Integrated Behavioral Health Benefits: Blue Shield will also directly manage behavioral health benefits, delivering a more connected, whole-person care experience with improved provider access and dedicated support.

To view exact terms and conditions of coverage for all 2026 plan offerings, refer to the Evidence of Coverage for the plan, or you can also use the Plan Comparison tool to see plan updates across multiple years and compare plan benefits within the same plan family.

Select dental plans will no longer be available for 2026 renewals.

As part of simplification, DPPO and DINO plans were withdrawn from the Anthem Specialty portfolio on January 1, 2026. Anthem will be providing written communication to your employer groups enrolled in any of these withdrawing plans 90 days prior to their anniversary. Your groups have the option to renew in a recommended available plan or opt out and choose another available plan.

Mapping grid: for a list of withdrawn plans and corresponding recommended available plans Click Here

For More Information or Help Quoting Blue Shield, Please Contact Your Dickerson Sales Rep.