CommercialMedicare AdvantageHoosier Healthwise, Healthy Indiana Plan, Hoosier Care Connect, and IN PathWays for AgingDecember 1, 2023
A way to help lower-income patients pay for internet service
This communication applies to the Commercial, Medicaid, and Medicare Advantage programs from Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana.
Having reliable internet access is an important part of life. The internet helps us find information and connect with people, including finding and connecting with healthcare providers via virtual visits. However, not everyone can afford it. We share a health vision with our care provider partners that means real change for consumers. Making the internet more accessible is one way we can improve the whole health of our communities.
The Affordable Connectivity Program can help.
What is the Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a government program that helps families who may need assistance pay for internet access. Qualified households can receive:
- Up to a $30/month discount on internet service.
- Up to a $75/month discount on internet service if they live on certain Tribal lands.
- Up to a $100 one-time discount on a laptop, desktop, or tablet bought through a participating internet provider.
Who is eligible for the program?
A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if:
- The household income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- Someone in the household (including a child or dependent):
- Participates in certain government assistance programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Social Security Income (SSI), the Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program, or others.
- Participates in certain Tribal assistance programs such as Head Start, Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or others.
- Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.
- Already receives a Lifeline benefit (another government program providing discounts on internet and phone service).
How do my patients apply?
Your eligible patients can apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program online or by mail. They can also ask their current internet provider if they participate in the program. Please direct your patients to learn more at AffordableConnectivity.gov.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc., independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc.
Providers who are contracted with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield to serve Hoosier Healthwise, Healthy Indiana Plan and Hoosier Care Connect through an accountable care organization (ACO), participating medical group (PMG) or Independent Physician Association (IPA) are to follow guidelines and practices of the group. This includes but is not limited to authorization, covered benefits and services, and claims submittal. If you have questions, please contact your group administrator or your Anthem network representative.
INBCBS-CDCRCM-036085-23-CPN34208
PUBLICATIONS: December 2023 Provider Newsletter
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