Question: I moved my family from Virginia to Alaska last week. We have an individual family policy (not group) from Anthem BCBS Virginia. My intention was to keep the Virginia policy and apply for a new policy when we got here. Since arriving I have not been feeling well. It may be nothing but my concern is that if I visit a doctor and there is something wrong I may not be able to get a new policy. Is this a ligitimate concern and what if any recommendations do you have? Thank you!!

Answer: Your Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Virginia policy covers you in Alaska. As long as you get medical services from a provider who is in the Premera Blue Cross of Alaska network, your coverage in Alaska will be the same as they would have been in Virginia. If you have something wrong, get treatment. It could be something that would become serious if not treated now. Go see a doctor!

Normally, your current policy will cover you in Alaska for months (six months is probably the limit). You should apply for coverage with Premera Blue Cross in Alaska if you live there on a more permanent basis. If you have developed a serious medical condition in the meantime and do not qualify for individual health insurance with a new carrier, there are other options like HIPAA and PCIP.