Details on the transition from Anthem to Blue Shield of CA

What you need to know

Open Enrollment is Oct. 30 – Nov. 21. See what’s changing, explore your options and enroll for 2026 on UCnet.

Read the message about the 2026 medical plan changes from the VP of Systemwide HR.

Understanding the transition

Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, Blue Shield of California will replace Anthem Blue Cross as the administrator of the PPO plans for faculty/staff and non-Medicare retirees. As a nonprofit with deep roots in California, Blue Shield aligns with UC’s values to improve the health of our communities and shares our commitment to provide high-quality, accessible care for all Californians. Blue Shield offers a large provider network and comprehensive coverage at home and abroad.

We know that health care is personal — and that changes to your benefits can be stressful. To keep you informed about changes that affect you, we’ve created this page to share details about the transition to Blue Shield of California.

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Navigate the changes with confidence

Attend a webinar to learn more about the changes and how Accolade can support you during Open Enrollment and throughout the year.

View dates, times and register.

What this means to you

Most Anthem Blue Cross providers are expected to be in-network with Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield’s large provider network includes most current in-network providers, along with all UC Health providers and facilities.

However, you may experience a change in the network of providers you have access to. If a provider you or a dependent has seen in the past year is not in the Blue Shield of California network, you will receive a letter from UC in late October informing you. If you have questions about your provider’s status, call Accolade at (866) 406-1182.

Find a provider or confirm whether your provider is in-network

To confirm our provider's participation, usethe Blue Shield provider search tool or call Accolade at (866) 406-1182.

Although uncommon, providers can leave a network without informing patients. To avoid surprises, confirm with your provider before each appointment that they participate in the Blue Shield of California PPO network.

Transition of care through March 31, 2026

If you or a covered family member is currently in a course of treatment (e.g., in the third trimester of pregnancy, undergoing chemotherapy or being treated for an acute, short-term condition), you may be able to continue seeing your current provider through March 31, 2026, at the 2026 in-network coverage level. Contact Accolade at (866) 406-1182 to confirm whether you can continue treatment with your current provider.

Existing prior authorizations will be honored

Prior authorizations that you’ve received for services after Jan. 1 will remain valid. Just make sure your provider is in the Blue Shield network — Accolade can help if you need to switch. In late December, you’ll receive a letter from Blue Shield confirming your prior authorization.

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What’s not changing

Accolade remains your go-to resource, helping you understand how the changes affect you, your benefits and the providers you receive care from. If you need to speak with someone who can help, call an Accolade Care Advocate at (866) 406-1182 for personalized support about the transition, your 2026 choices and more. 

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For details about all the UC 2026 benefit plan changes, choices and premiums, go to UCnet.

Open Enrollment transition checklist

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Need help? 
Call Accolade at (866) 406-1182 (Mon–Fri, 5 a.m.–8 p.m. PT). They can also help find plan documents in your language.