More Choices for Surgeries and Pregnancies

On January 1, 2026, Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alaska expands benefits for elective surgeries and low-risk pregnancies. You’ll see ambulatory surgical center (ASC) benefits in Availity Essentials. This shows members’ cost shares for ASC, outpatient, and inpatient care.

Why This Matters

Ambulatory surgical centers and birth centers give patients lower out-of-pocket costs. This reduces cost shares for high-value care at select locations, including ASCs and birth centers for low-risk pregnancies.

At a Glance

Ambulatory surgical centers:

• Meet strict safety and quality standards
• Handle common procedures like joint replacements, biopsies, and colonoscopies
• Focus on better outcomes and lower costs by seeing specialists

Birthing centers:

• Use a midwifery model for pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care
• Improve access for low-risk pregnancies
• Deliver better outcomes: fewer preterm and low-weight births, and higher breastfeeding rates

Not every member is a good fit for an ASC or birthing center. Always consult with your patient about the best care setting.