Take MESSA on your vacation, domestic or international

No matter where you go, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have exceptional health benefits and unmatched personal service with MESSA.

You should always take your MESSA card with you when you travel, whether domestically or internationally. That said, if you happen to leave home without your plastic card, you can pull up your virtual MESSA card in the MESSA app — because we know you’re not going to leave your phone at home.

Domestic travel, in-network
If you or a covered dependent receive treatment in a participating hospital or provider outside of Michigan, just show your MESSA card. The billing office will send the bill directly to the local Blue Cross Blue Shield plan. Participating providers should not ask you to pay upfront above your applicable copay, coinsurance or deductible amount.

Domestic travel, out-of-network
The Blue Cross Blue Shield plan in the state you’re visiting will apply benefits at your MESSA plan’s out-of-network level, including coinsurance and deductible. If you are referred to that provider by an in-network provider, or if you need care for an accidental injury or medical emergency, your in-network benefits apply.

Find Care
While you’re away and you need to find an in-network health care provider, visit messa.org/FindCare or go to your MESSA app and click on the “Find Care” button.

International travel
Coverage is available for medical emergencies and urgent care services is available for members traveling outside of the United States. Before you go, download the Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Core mobile app, which can help you find care, translate medical terms and access local emergency information. You can also call 800-810-BLUE or call collect at 804-673-1177 if you need help finding a provider or facility. You may need to pay all costs at the time you get care, but you can get reimbursed once you’re back home. You can find the Global Core claims reimbursement form and submit your itemized bills at bcbsglobalcore.com.