News

Beginning January 1, 2026, Blue Shield will directly manage the behavioral health benefit for all California members including those receiving Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) services. Today, some benefits are managed by their Mental Health Service Administrator (MHSA). This supports a simpler, member-focused experience with stronger coordination of care and improved oversight.

This change applies only to California members. Members outside California are not managed by MHSA. Most MHSA providers are already part of Blue Shield’s network. In California, self-funded groups already use this network, with the exception of ABA services.

In November, California members whose providers will not be in network on January 1, 2026, will receive guidance on how to request Continuity of Care. Requests and authorizations approved before year-end will be extended into 2026.

What to expect next
•    October 2, 2025: We will post a notice on blueshieldca.com about the transition of behavioral health networks, operations, and services. Members can use Find a Doctor to search for behavioral health providers who will be in network on January 1, 2026. Member Services will be ready to support questions and provider searches.
•    October 31, 2025: We will send letters to members whose current providers are not  contracted with Blue Shield in 2026, with instructions for requesting Continuity of Care. We will have a dedicated phone number and support team to assist impacted members through this transition. 

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