Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Cover SilverSneakers?
Yes, in most cases, SilverSneakers is provided at no cost to Medicare Advantage members – there is no separate premium or copay for using the SilverSneakers gym network. The inclusion of SilverSneakers is one of the extra benefits (like dental, vision, etc.) that many MA plans use to add value. However, keep in mind that not every single BCBS MA plan nationwide includes SilverSneakers; availability can vary by plan and region. It’s always important to check the specific plan details. If SilverSneakers is included, it will be listed as a covered benefit (and if it’s not included, some plans might offer a similar alternative fitness program).
SilverSneakers in BCBS Medigap plans is less common than in MA plans, and the availability or cost can vary significantly by state. In some states, BCBS companies include SilverSneakers as a complimentary benefit with their Medigap plans. In other regions, SilverSneakers is not automatically included with Medigap, but the BCBS insurer may offer it as an optional add-on. For example, Florida Blue’s standard Medicare Supplement plans do not come with SilverSneakers by default; instead, Florida Blue Medigap members can add a SilverSneakers membership for an extra monthly premium. It’s also worth noting that a few BCBS Medigap offerings might not have any SilverSneakers option at all.
Does My Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plan Offer SilverSneakers?
To find out if your desired BCBS Medicare health care plan includes SilverSneakers, visit the SilverSneakers website and enter your location and other personal information to receive a list of available plans in your area. From there, you can compare plan options and choose one that includes the SilverSneakers program.
To find out if your BCBS plan includes SilverSneakers, follow these steps:
1. Check Your Member Portal
- Visit your local BCBS provider’s website (bcbs.com).
- Log in to your member account.
- Search for “SilverSneakers” in your plan benefits or look under the “Wellness” or “Fitness Programs” section.
2. Call Customer Service
- The number is usually on the back of your insurance card.
3. Use the SilverSneakers Eligibility Checker
- Go to: https://tools.silversneakers.com/Eligibility/CheckEligibility.
- Enter your name, date of birth, and BCBS insurance information.
Does Blue Cross Charge a Premium For SilverSneakers?
The actual membership costs can vary by Medicare Advantage plan type and location.
Suppose your Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliate doesn’t include SilverSneakers in their Medicare plans. In that case, you can connect with one of our insurance agents who works with multiple carriers to help you find other Medicare Advantage plans from carriers that offer SilverSneakers or similar fitness programs for seniors.
How Can I Find SilverSneakers Fitness Locations?
Use the SilverSneakers Location Finder
- Go to: https://tools.silversneakers.com/.
- Click on “Find Fitness Locations.”
- Enter your ZIP code.
- Filter by amenities (e.g., pool, weights, yoga).
- It will show participating gyms near you.
OR
Use Your BCBS Local Website
If your plan is from a regional BCBS provider (like Florida Blue or BCBS Michigan), you can:
- Visit their member portal.
- Search “SilverSneakers.”
- Use any provided gym directory or partner list.
OR
Call the Gym
Once you’ve found a gym:
- Call to confirm they still accept SilverSneakers.
- Ask if they require any documents or pre-registration.
Enrolling in SilverSneakers
Enrolling in SilverSneakers gym membership through your BCBS plan is easy. Visit the SilverSneakers eligibility checker and input your BCBS ID number to see if your plan includes the program. If it does, you can create a SilverSneakers account and explore your fitness and wellness options.
Bottom Line
Staying active and healthy as we age is essential, and SilverSneakers is an excellent option for seniors looking to maintain their fitness and wellness. With the program now available through select BCBS plans, it’s easier than ever to enroll and start enjoying the benefits of SilverSneakers.
Check your BCBS plan to see if SilverSneakers is included, and take advantage of all the resources and opportunities the program offers.