As one of the most recognized names in American health insurance, Anthem California stands at the forefront of healthcare innovation and accessibility in the Golden State. In 2025, the insurer continues to expand its influence through competitive offerings, wider provider networks, and digital healthcare enhancements.
Whether you’re an individual exploring your Covered California options, a small business looking for group coverage, or someone transitioning to Medicare, Anthem’s tailored approach meets diverse healthcare needs.
Let’s dive into what Anthem offers Californians in 2025—and why it continues to be a top choice for reliable, affordable coverage.
Understanding Anthem Blue Cross in California
Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name for Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Elevance Health (formerly Anthem, Inc.). Despite common confusion, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of California are entirely separate entities.
Anthem holds a Blue Cross license to operate in California, offering both commercial and government-sponsored health plans. Its affiliation with the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) ensures expansive nationwide coverage for PPO members.
Key Distinctions:
-
Anthem Blue Cross = For-profit, part of Elevance Health
-
Blue Shield of California = Nonprofit, independently operated
-
Anthem participates in the Covered California exchange, offering ACA-compliant plans
2025 Updates to Anthem California Health Plans
In 2025, Anthem California introduced several upgrades aimed at improving user experience and expanding healthcare access:
-
Virtual First Plans: Members can consult with a virtual care team before in-person visits
-
Expanded Telehealth: Mental health and chronic condition management via video
-
More PPO Availability: Greater access in rural areas and Central California
-
New Zero-Dollar Premium Plans: For qualifying low-income residents through subsidies
-
Green Pharmacy Initiative: Lower co-pays on sustainable drug delivery packaging
These updates reflect Anthem’s commitment to preventive care, affordability, and convenience.
Who Can Get Anthem Health Insurance in California?
Anthem California serves a wide range of demographics, from individuals to employer groups to retirees. You may be eligible if you are:
-
A resident of California
-
Self-employed or a small business owner
-
Enrolled in Covered California
-
Eligible for Medi-Cal or Medicare Advantage
-
A student (via student health plans)
-
A part-time or full-time employee offered group health
Anthem offers plans for every stage of life—from childhood to senior years.
Types of Anthem California Plans Available
Anthem structures its plan offerings by coverage type:
1. Individual & Family Plans
-
Available on Covered California (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum tiers)
-
Include essential health benefits and preventive care
2. Employer-Sponsored Plans
-
Customizable for small or large groups
-
Focus on cost-sharing, EPO, PPO, and HDHP structures
3. Medicare Advantage
-
Includes HMO, PPO, D-SNP (Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans)
-
Extra benefits like dental, vision, OTC cards, and gym memberships
4. Medi-Cal Managed Care
-
Anthem serves over 1 million Medi-Cal members in select counties
Anthem and Covered California
Is Anthem Blue Cross the same as Covered California? No, but they are closely connected.
Covered California is the state’s ACA health insurance marketplace, where Anthem offers many of its individual and family plans.
In 2025, Anthem is available in most counties on Covered California. You can compare plans side-by-side and qualify for:
-
Premium assistance subsidies
-
Cost-sharing reductions
-
Family dental and pediatric vision
Anthem’s presence on Covered California makes it easy for consumers to enroll and receive financial help.
Anthem California for Families and Individuals
Anthem remains a top choice for families, self-employed individuals, and young adults. Plans often include:
-
Pediatric dental and vision
-
Maternity and newborn care
-
Preventive screenings and vaccinations
-
24/7 virtual doctor visits
-
Flexible plan choices with tiered pricing
In 2025, Anthem’s Bronze and Silver plans offer competitive rates with generous subsidies for low-to-moderate-income families.
Anthem for Small Business and Large Groups
Anthem provides scalable group health insurance plans to companies of all sizes. Employers can:
-
Choose between PPO, HMO, EPO, and high-deductible health plans
-
Add vision, dental, disability, and life insurance
-
Access employer portals for easy HR management
-
Meet ACA requirements with minimal administrative hassle
Well-being programs and employee assistance services are included to improve health outcomes and retention.
Provider Network Strength and Hospital Partnerships
Anthem’s extensive provider network includes:
-
UCLA Health
-
Cedars-Sinai
-
Stanford Health Care
-
UC Davis Medical Center
-
Sutter Health
-
Dignity Health
In 2025, Anthem added more primary care physicians in underserved areas, improving rural access.
How to Enroll in Anthem California
Enrolling in Anthem is straightforward:
-
Via Covered California – during Open Enrollment (Nov 1 – Jan 31)
-
Special Enrollment – if you have a qualifying life event (job loss, move, birth)
-
Directly through Anthem.com – year-round for group plans or dental/vision
-
Medicare Enrollment – via Medicare.gov or directly through Anthem
Need help? Licensed agents and enrollment counselors are available online or by phone.
Member Perks and Extra Benefits in 2025
Anthem California gives members more than just basic coverage:
-
Sydney Health App – for claims, ID cards, find-a-doctor, and telehealth
-
24/7 NurseLine – free phone advice on medical concerns
-
Behavioral Health Services – virtual therapy and psychiatric consults
-
Gym Discounts and Wellness Programs
-
Home-Delivered Medications
These value-added services enhance quality of life and reduce long-term costs.
Anthem California Prescription Drug Coverage
Anthem’s pharmacy network includes:
-
CVS
-
Walgreens
-
Walmart
-
Costco
-
Independent pharmacies statewide
Plans follow a four-tier formulary, with cost-saving tools like:
-
Generic alternatives
-
Mail-order options
-
Prior authorization and step therapy programs
-
Real-time benefits comparison via Sydney app
Costs, Premiums, and Deductibles for 2025
In 2025, Anthem California’s costs vary by metal tier and region.
-
Bronze plans: Lower premiums, higher deductibles (for healthy individuals)
-
Silver plans: Balanced, eligible for cost-sharing reductions
-
Gold/Platinum plans: Higher premiums, low out-of-pocket costs
Average monthly premiums (before subsidy):
-
Bronze: $295
-
Silver: $385
-
Gold: $450
-
Platinum: $510
Subsidies through Covered California may reduce costs by over $250/month, depending on household income.
Customer Support and Online Tools
Anthem continues to improve member satisfaction with:
-
24/7 support via live chat or phone
-
In-network provider search tools
-
Plan comparison calculators
-
Real-time claim status
-
Multilingual support in over 10 languages
Member portals allow document uploads, payments, ID access, and secure messaging.
Common Complaints and Resolutions
Some members report issues like:
-
Billing errors
-
Prior authorization delays
-
Customer service wait times
Anthem has addressed these by:
-
Implementing AI chatbots for faster responses
-
Adding weekend service agents
-
Streamlining claims appeals
Most problems are resolved within 10 business days.
External Reviews and Ratings for Anthem California
In 2025, Anthem receives:
-
3.5 stars from CMS for Medicare Advantage plans
-
A- rating from Better Business Bureau (BBB)
-
Top 3 in J.D. Power’s Commercial Member Satisfaction in California
-
High user ratings for mobile app usability and telehealth availability
Anthem vs Competitors in California
How does Anthem compare?
Kaiser is known for its integrated care and HMO efficiency but offers limited out-of-network access. Blue Shield, a nonprofit, provides broad access to providers, though it lacks some of the digital conveniences today’s users expect. Molina is a strong option for affordable Medi-Cal coverage but may not be ideal for those seeking employer-sponsored plans.
Anthem stands out for its PPO flexibility, user-friendly mobile tools, and broader network reach.
For those needing PPO access, digital tools, and nationwide portability, Anthem often comes out ahead.
Future Outlook – Is Anthem Leaving California?
No, Anthem is not leaving California in 2025. While some insurers exited in past years, Anthem remains a key player in both Covered California and employer-sponsored markets.
Anthem continues to invest in:
-
Digital infrastructure
-
Behavioral health integration
-
Rural provider access
-
Medicare growth initiatives
Their strategic focus on California’s evolving demographics signals long-term commitment.
FAQs
What is Anthem called in California?
Anthem operates in California as Anthem Blue Cross, a trade name of Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company.
What is the California state Anthem?
The official state song of California is “I Love You, California,” adopted in 1951.
Is Anthem leaving California?
No, as of 2025, Anthem is not leaving California. It remains active in both commercial and government health plans statewide.
Is Anthem Blue Cross the same as Covered California?
No, but Anthem Blue Cross offers plans through Covered California, the state’s health insurance marketplace under the ACA.
Does Anthem offer Medi-Cal in California?
Yes, Anthem offers Medi-Cal managed care plans in several California counties.
Can I use Anthem Blue Cross outside California?
If you have a PPO or BlueCard plan, you may use Anthem’s national Blue Cross Blue Shield network for out-of-state care.
Final Thoughts
Anthem California in 2025 continues to deliver comprehensive, affordable, and accessible healthcare across the state. With digital innovation, broad provider networks, and plans for all income levels, Anthem remains a top-tier choice.
Whether you’re shopping on Covered California, exploring Medicare Advantage, or choosing a family plan, Anthem’s wide range of options ensures coverage that’s both reliable and future-focused.
Coverage that fits your life is just a click away—start at NewHealthInsurance.com or call 📞 (833) 877-9927!
