If you’re shopping for health insurance in Idaho, you’ve likely come across two of the biggest names in the state: Blue Cross of Idaho and Regence BlueShield of Idaho. While both are part of the national Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, they operate independently and offer different plans, pricing, and member experiences.
In this article, we compare Blue Cross of Idaho vs Regence BlueShield of Idaho for 2025 across key factors like plan availability, provider networks, ACA coverage, Medicare plans, customer support, and more—helping you decide which one is right for your healthcare needs and budget.
Quick Comparison Snapshot
| Feature | Blue Cross of Idaho | Regence BlueShield of Idaho |
| Plan Availability | Individual, Family, Medicare Advantage, Group | Individual, Family, Medicare Advantage, Group |
| Marketplace Participation | Yes (Your Health Idaho) | Yes (Your Health Idaho) |
| Network Type | PPO, HMO | PPO |
| Out-of-Network Coverage | Yes (PPO plans) | Yes (PPO plans) |
| Customer Support | Local, strong community presence | Regional, excellent broker support |
About the Companies
Blue Cross of Idaho
Founded in 1945, Blue Cross of Idaho is a nonprofit, Idaho-based insurer that serves over 600,000 members statewide. It is one of the oldest and most established health insurers in the state.
Highlights:
- ACA Marketplace plans through Your Health Idaho
- Medicare Advantage & Medigap plans
- Group health insurance for small and large businesses
- Focus on local service and preventive care
- Offers PPO and HMO plan types
Regence BlueShield of Idaho
Regence BlueShield of Idaho is part of the Regence family of health plans, which includes coverage across the Pacific Northwest. Although it shares the Blue brand, Regence is a distinct organization from Blue Cross of Idaho.
Highlights:
- Offers ACA Marketplace plans in Idaho
- Strong regional provider partnerships
- Part of the Cambia Health Solutions family
- Known for customizable PPO plans and virtual care options
- Medicare Advantage and employer group plans available
ACA Marketplace Plans (Your Health Idaho)
Both Blue Cross of Idaho and Regence BlueShield of Idaho participate in Your Health Idaho, the state’s health insurance exchange.
| Feature | Blue Cross of Idaho | Regence BlueShield of Idaho |
| Bronze, Silver, Gold Tiers | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly Premium Range | $0 – $600+ (after subsidies) | $0 – $575+ (after subsidies) |
| Deductibles | $1,200 – $7,500+ | $1,000 – $7,000+ |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | $5,000 – $9,450 | $4,800 – $9,100 |
| Virtual Care | Yes (Doctor On Demand, local partners) | Yes (MDLIVE and Teladoc services) |
| Mental Health Coverage | Included | Included |
| Dental/Vision (Adult) | Optional add-ons | Optional add-ons |
Verdict: Both insurers offer competitive ACA plans, but Blue Cross has stronger rural coverage, while Regence often wins on digital tools and out-of-pocket cost control.
Medicare Advantage Plans in Idaho
Both insurers also offer Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans in select Idaho counties.
| Feature | Blue Cross of Idaho MA Plans | Regence Medicare Advantage Plans |
| Plan Types | HMO, PPO | PPO |
| Prescription Coverage (MAPD) | Yes | Yes |
| Dental, Vision, Hearing | Yes (most plans) | Yes (most plans) |
| OTC & Grocery Benefits | Available in select plans | Yes |
| CMS Star Ratings (2024) | 4.0 – 4.5 stars | 4.0 – 4.5 stars |
| Fitness Programs | Silver&Fit or equivalent | Silver&Fit or equivalent |
Verdict: Both providers offer top-rated Medicare Advantage plans with similar supplemental benefits. Your choice may come down to provider access or preferred pharmacy networks.
Provider Networks & Access
| Category | Blue Cross of Idaho | Regence BlueShield of Idaho |
| Primary Care Providers | Extensive statewide | Strong statewide coverage |
| Hospital Affiliations | Includes St. Luke’s, Saint Alphonsus | Includes same + additional out-of-state options |
| Specialist Access | PPO: No referrals needed | PPO: No referrals needed |
| Out-of-Network Flexibility | Yes (PPO), Limited (HMO) | Yes (PPO) |
Verdict: Regence offers better out-of-state options (ideal for travelers or snowbirds), while Blue Cross provides strong statewide support, especially in rural areas.
Technology & Member Experience
| Feature | Blue Cross of Idaho | Regence BlueShield of Idaho |
| Mobile App | Yes – MyBlue portal | Yes – Regence app and dashboard |
| Virtual Visits | Yes – 24/7 telehealth | Yes – MDLIVE + mental health tools |
| Cost Estimator Tools | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Service | Highly rated for local support | Strong digital help + broker network |
Verdict: Both insurers are tech-savvy, but Regence has more advanced self-service options, while Blue Cross offers more personalized local support.
Pros and Cons
Blue Cross of Idaho
Pros:
- Deep local roots and community engagement
- Strong ACA and Medicare plan options
- PPO and HMO flexibility
- Ideal for rural residents and state-based care
Cons:
- Less competitive out-of-state provider access
- Fewer advanced mobile tools compared to Regence
Regence BlueShield of Idaho
Pros:
- Excellent PPO flexibility with out-of-state BCBS access
- Strong digital tools and virtual care programs
- Broad specialist and hospital network
- Great for frequent travelers and tech-friendly users
Cons:
- Slightly higher costs in some counties
- Smaller in-state customer service footprint
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Blue Cross of Idaho if:
- You live in a rural area and need local provider access
- You want strong ACA plan value with community support
- You prefer personalized, local customer service
Choose Regence BlueShield of Idaho if:
- You travel often or live part-time out of state
- You want advanced tech tools and online care options
- You prefer PPO plans with broader out-of-network access
Both Blue Cross of Idaho and Regence BlueShield of Idaho are excellent health insurance choices for 2025, offering competitive ACA and Medicare Advantage plans. The best choice for you will depend on where you live, how much flexibility you need, and whether you prioritize local customer service or digital convenience.
Before you enroll:
- Compare plans on YourHealthIdaho.org
- Review provider networks and drug formularies
- Check Medicare Star Ratings if you’re 65+