When choosing a health insurance provider, the size and quality of the provider network are just as important as the benefits offered. For residents of Washington and Alaska, the Premera Blue Cross network provides one of the most comprehensive healthcare access options in the region. With thousands of doctors, specialists, clinics, and hospitals in-network, Premera ensures its members receive high-quality care without unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.
This guide explains how the Premera network works, what’s included, how to find in-network providers, and why choosing Premera gives you both local care and national reach.
What Is the Premera Blue Cross Network?
The Premera Blue Cross network refers to the collection of healthcare providers—including primary care doctors, specialists, hospitals, urgent care centers, labs, and pharmacies—that have contracted with Premera to provide medical services at discounted rates.
By using in-network providers, members receive:
- Lower copays and deductibles
- Predictable billing with negotiated pricing
- Streamlined claims processing
- Access to coordinated care across providers
Network Tiers: Understanding Premera’s Provider Access
Premera offers different network types depending on the plan and region. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Heritage Network
- Premera’s largest and most widely available network
- Includes hospitals, physicians, and clinics across Washington and Alaska
- Available with most employer-sponsored and individual plans
2. Heritage Plus Network
- A more focused network with cost savings
- Typically offered to employers in specific areas
- Members must receive care from Heritage Plus providers unless it’s an emergency
3. PersonalCare Network
- Integrated care model available in select counties
- Providers work together to manage your care efficiently
- Ideal for people with chronic conditions or who want a personalized approach
4. BlueCard® National Network
- Nationwide network available through the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
- Allows members to receive in-network care when traveling or living outside Washington or Alaska
- Accepted by over 95% of hospitals and 90% of doctors across the U.S.
How to Find In-Network Providers with Premera
To locate doctors, hospitals, or clinics within your plan’s network, use the official Premera Blue Cross search tools:
Find a Doctor or Facility Tool
- Filter by location, specialty, provider name, gender, language, or facility
- Mobile-friendly search experience
- Updated regularly with accurate provider availability
Member Portal & Mobile App
- Log in to see personalized network details
- View past visits, favorite providers, and estimated care costs
What’s Included in the Premera Network?
Premera’s network covers a wide range of healthcare services, including:
| Service Type | In-Network Coverage Includes |
| Primary Care | Family doctors, internal medicine, pediatricians |
| Specialists | Cardiologists, dermatologists, mental health professionals |
| Hospitals | Regional medical centers, local hospitals, surgical centers |
| Urgent Care | Walk-in clinics, same-day care, virtual urgent care |
| Behavioral Health | Therapy, psychiatry, substance use treatment |
| Preventive Services | Screenings, vaccines, annual checkups |
| Diagnostics | Imaging, labs, X-rays, MRIs, mammograms |
| Pharmacies | Major pharmacy chains and local drugstores |
Premera members also have access to wellness programs, chronic condition management, and care coordination services depending on their plan.
Advantages of Premera’s Network
1. Extensive Regional Reach
With thousands of providers across Washington and Alaska, Premera offers widespread access even in rural and remote areas.
2. National Access via BlueCard
If you’re traveling or living temporarily in another state, you can still see providers in-network using the BlueCard Program, accepted in all 50 states.
3. Collaborative Healthcare
Premera emphasizes coordinated care, encouraging communication between your doctors and specialists to improve outcomes and reduce duplicate treatments.
4. Trusted Names in Healthcare
Many of the region’s top-rated healthcare systems are in-network with Premera, including:
- Providence Health & Services
- UW Medicine
- MultiCare
- Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
- Alaska Native Medical Center
Out-of-Network Coverage: What to Know
While Premera strongly encourages in-network care, some plans do include limited out-of-network benefits. However, these usually come with:
- Higher deductibles
- Increased coinsurance rates
- Balance billing risks
To avoid high bills, always verify a provider’s in-network status before scheduling services.
Tips for Maximizing Your Network Benefits
- Choose a primary care provider (PCP) to coordinate your care
- Use Premera’s mobile app to search for in-network doctors and estimate costs
- Stick to the Heritage or BlueCard networks unless your plan allows for broader access
- Check referrals and specialist network status even if referred by your PCP
- Confirm urgent care centers are in-network before visiting
The Premera Blue Cross network gives members access to one of the most robust and flexible healthcare systems in the Pacific Northwest. With strong local and national provider relationships, Premera ensures you receive high-quality care whether you’re close to home or traveling out of state. By staying in-network, you not only save money but also enjoy a smoother, more coordinated healthcare experience.
For the most accurate and personalized provider search, visit the Premera provider directory and log into your member account.