The local advantage

The value of a Kansas-based health plan

If you’re evaluating health plans, you’re probably comparing premiums, deductibles and plan design. Those are all important considerations. But they’re only part of the decision.

The real value of a health plan becomes clear after employees begin using it—when they need to find a provider, understand their benefits, manage an ongoing health condition or resolve an issue. That's when you find out whether you've simply selected a health plan—or chosen a health partner.

That’s one reason many Kansas employers choose Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS). Beyond competitive pricing, they’re looking for a health plan that understands the local health care landscape, helps employees access and use their benefits and delivers long-term value.

Being local isn't just about where a health plan is headquartered. It's about building relationships with local providers, employers, brokers and communities across the state. As a Kansas-based health plan, BCBSKS is invested in the places where our members live and work. Those relationships help us better understand the needs of Kansas businesses and connect employees with the care and support they need.

Why local relationships matter

Being Kansas-based means working alongside the people and organizations that shape our state. These insights help BCBSKS respond quickly, collaborate more effectively and develop solutions that reflect the needs of Kansas employers—not just broad national trends.

That commitment extends beyond health coverage. By supporting local organizations and community initiatives, BCBSKS helps strengthen communities across the state. We also work to ensure the needs of Kansas businesses are represented in health policy discussions at the Kansas Statehouse, advocating for affordability and access to care.

Our local perspective is paired with the strength of the nationwide Blue Cross and Blue Shield network. Blue Cross offers the largest provider network in Kansas while giving members access to more than 2 million doctors and hospitals and more than 66,000 in-network pharmacies nationwide.¹

For employers, this means employees can receive care close to home while maintaining access to care when work or life takes them elsewhere.

“We get people that call and ask us to look at their insurance program every week. I trust Blue Cross, and I don't even really give those other companies two minutes. We’ve shopped some, but nobody’s beat them yet.” — John Hardman, Jayhawk Bowling Supply & Equipment, Inc.

Local relationships help remove barriers

Health care works best when employees can access the care they need without unnecessary obstacles. That's one reason Blue Cross places such a strong emphasis on provider relationships, local expertise and responsive service. Employers aren't simply joining a network. They have direct access to local sales and account teams who understand Kansas businesses, know the provider community and can help employers navigate an increasingly complex health care system.

The Blue Cross commitment shows up in measurable ways. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas has earned Call Center of the Year recognition five times. We resolve 78% of member issues during the first call.² Ninety-three out of every 100 employer groups renew their coverage each year, reflecting long-term relationships built on trust and service.³

What employers need. How BCBSKS delivers.

You want access to care your employees can actually use. Blue Cross offers the largest provider network in Kansas, with access to more than 2 million doctors and hospitals nationwide and more than 66,000 in-network pharmacies across the country.¹

You want predictable value. Blue Cross members experience a 7% lower total cost of care compared to national competitors, helping employers get more value from their health plan.⁵

You want your health care dollars to go further. Blue Cross has negotiated more than $4.5 billion in exclusive provider discounts in Kansas, with savings of up to 66% on common medical services.⁶

You want employees to use in-network providers. Ninety-eight percent of Blue Cross claims are paid in network, helping employees receive care while keeping costs under control.⁴

You want a health plan focused on members. Approximately 86 cents of every premium dollar goes directly toward paying claims, supporting members rather than shareholders.⁷

Better access creates better value 

When choosing a health care plan for employees, cost will always be part of the decision. But employers also want to know what they are getting for their investment. Timely, appropriate care for employees helps support a healthier, more productive workforce. Strong provider relationships, coordinated care and local support all contribute to that goal.

Blue Cross reports a total cost of care that is 7% lower than national competitors, along with more than $4.5 billion in exclusive provider discounts in Kansas.⁵^,⁶ Those results reinforce an important point: lowering costs doesn't have to mean limiting access or cutting corners on care. Rather, the goal is to remove barriers, improve outcomes and help employers make the most of every health care dollar they invest.

The local difference

The health care landscape continues to evolve, but one thing hasn't changed: employers want a partner they can count on.

For Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, the local advantage isn't simply about where the company is located. It's about combining deep Kansas roots with national reach, building strong relationships, supporting the communities we call home and helping employers create lasting value through better access to care.

Let’s find the right plan for your business

Whether you’re exploring health coverage for the first time or considering a change, our local team is here to help.

More than 50 employees? Talk with a BCBSKS sales representative

50 employees or fewer? Get an online quote