Last updated: 2026-07-10 · Reviewed by Cancer Answers OC Care Coordination Team
Anthem Blue Cross plan types accepted
Anthem Blue Cross offers several plan types in California. Coverage rules and referral requirements vary by plan.
- PPO
- HMO
- EPO
- Medicare Advantage
What's typically covered
Most cancer services are covered when delivered by in-network providers. Coverage details vary by plan — verify your specific benefits before scheduling.
- Oncology consultations & second opinions
- Chemotherapy and infusion therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgical oncology
- Genetic counseling and testing (when criteria met)
Referrals & prior authorization
HMO members typically need a referral from their primary care physician before seeing an oncologist. PPO members can usually self-refer. Anthem Blue Cross commonly requires prior authorization for advanced imaging (PET, MRI), infusion therapy, and certain targeted or specialty medications. Our care coordinators help confirm what's needed before your first visit.
Infusion & chemotherapy coverage
Anthem Blue Cross plans generally cover medically necessary infusion therapy and chemotherapy administered at an in-network infusion center, hospital outpatient department, or physician's office. Oral chemotherapy is usually covered under the pharmacy benefit.
USC / Keck Medicine affiliation
Our featured Orange County provider — Keck Medicine of USC — Newport Beach — is part of the Keck Medicine of USC network, an NCI-designated academic cancer care system. Most major Anthem Blue Cross plans include in-network access. Care coordination, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and clinical trial screening are standard.
How to verify your specific plan
Call the member services number on the back of your Anthem card and ask: 'Is this provider in-network for oncology under my plan, and do I need a referral or prior authorization?'
Frequently asked questions
Does Anthem Blue Cross cover chemotherapy in Orange County?
Yes. Anthem Blue Cross typically covers medically necessary chemotherapy delivered by in-network oncology providers in Orange County, including infusion therapy and most oral chemotherapy under the pharmacy benefit.
Does Anthem Blue Cross cover radiation therapy for cancer?
Yes. Anthem Blue Cross plans generally cover medically necessary radiation therapy — including external beam radiation, IMRT, and SBRT — when prescribed by an in-network oncologist. Prior authorization is common.
Do I need a referral to see an oncologist with Anthem Blue Cross?
If you have an HMO plan, yes — your primary care physician needs to issue a referral. PPO and EPO members can usually self-refer to an in-network oncologist. Our care coordinators help with referral logistics.
Does Anthem Blue Cross cover second opinions for cancer?
Yes. Anthem Blue Cross plans typically cover second opinions for a cancer diagnosis when the consulting oncologist is in-network. Second opinions are considered a standard part of cancer care.
Does Anthem Blue Cross cover clinical trial participation?
Anthem Blue Cross typically covers routine patient care costs associated with approved clinical trials, as required under federal and California law. Trial-specific costs are usually covered by the trial sponsor.
Want to know if your specific Anthem plan is accepted? Our team verifies benefits at no cost.
Other carriers in Orange County