​Registered Nurse Health Coaches (Health Coach) are available to discuss members' health-related questions and concerns. A Health Coach can provide simple answers or give advice to help members make the best decisions for their health. They are available 24/7, year-round.

Members can access to Health Coaches as another means to the care they receive. All members are eligible for Health Coaches, but they must be referred by a provider. Health Coaches can work with the member between appointments and treatment to answer questions and provide information to prepare them for the next phase of care. 

A Health Coach is available through many different programs offered by Independence. These programs include:

• 24/7 Health Information Line. Independence members can call 1-800-ASK-BLUE (1-800-275-2583) anytime to speak with a Health Coach.

• Get Connected. Independence members can opt in to receive text or email messages about health screening reminders, important plan notifications, and cost savings alerts. Some messages provide members with the option to call a Health Coach.

• Case management. Case management provides support to adult and pediatric members who are experiencing complex health issues, multiple chronic conditions, transitions in care, or challenges in meeting their health care goals. Complex Case Management services include Health Coaches and Social Workers who can assist with connections to appropriate community resources.

• Condition management.* Condition management is available to members that have specific chronic conditions – asthma, diabetes, COPD, hypertension, and congestive heart failure. It is available for members who are newly diagnosed, as well as those previously diagnosed with one or more of the conditions listed.

• Baby BluePrints® maternity program. Expecting members can self-enroll in the program by calling 1-800-598-BABY (1-800-598-2229) to receive educational messages and outreach throughout their pregnancy on topics such as prenatal care, nutrition, screenings for high-risk indicators, and prenatal/postpartum depression. Members identified as high-risk will receive support throughout their pregnancy from an obstetrical Health Coach.

If you would like to refer an Independence member to one of the programs listed above, complete the online physician referral form or call 1-800-313-8628.

^*Independence members who are covered through fully insured employer groups are automatically considered eligible for condition management. Members covered through certain self-insured employer groups may not be eligible for the program. Members can call Customer Service at 1-800-ASK-BLUE (1-800-275-2583) to verify their eligibility.