Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield vs UnitedHealthcare
An honest side-by-side comparison of two of our top health insurance picks — pricing, strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is really for.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Ranked #3 of 15 in this directory
Major Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliate serving 14 states with comprehensive plans
UnitedHealthcare
Ranked #2 of 15 in this directory
The largest health insurer in the US serving employer and individual markets
Our pick: UnitedHealthcare. Our editors rank UnitedHealthcare higher overall in Health Insurance — but Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield | UnitedHealthcare | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Employer | Employer |
| Editorial rank | #3 of 15 | #2 of 15 |
Strengths
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- ✓Access to the massive Blue Cross Blue Shield provider network
- ✓Available across 14 states with strong regional presence
- ✓Sydney Health app provides comprehensive digital health management
- ✓Wide range of plan types across individual, group, and government markets
- ✓Strong preventive care programs and wellness incentives
UnitedHealthcare
- ✓Largest provider network in the US with access to most doctors and hospitals
- ✓Comprehensive range of plan types from HMO to PPO to high-deductible
- ✓Strong digital tools including the myUHC app for claims and benefits management
- ✓Available in most states across marketplace, employer, and government programs
- ✓Integrated wellness programs and telehealth through Optum
Watch out for
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- !Only available in its 14 operating states, not nationwide
- !Premium costs can vary significantly by region
- !Claims processing times can be lengthy for complex cases
- !Network adequacy varies between urban and rural areas
UnitedHealthcare
- !Large size can result in bureaucratic claims processes
- !Customer service experiences are inconsistent across regions
- !Prior authorization requirements can delay care approvals
- !Premiums can be higher than regional competitors in some markets
Best use cases
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- →Employer in Anthem's operating states seeking BCBS-network coverage
- →Individual wanting the security of the Blue Cross Blue Shield brand
- →Family looking for comprehensive marketplace plans with strong digital tools
UnitedHealthcare
- →Large employer seeking a national health plan with broad network coverage
- →Individual wanting access to the widest possible provider network
- →Medicare-eligible senior looking for Medicare Advantage options
About each tool
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem is one of the largest health insurers in the US and the biggest affiliate of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving members across 14 states. The company offers a full range of health plans including individual marketplace, employer group, Medicare, and Medicaid coverage. Anthem leverages the trusted Blue Cross Blue Shield brand and its extensive provider network, while investing heavily in digital health tools and virtual care through its Sydney Health app.
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare is the largest health insurance company in the United States by enrollment, serving over 50 million members through employer-sponsored, individual, Medicare, and Medicaid plans. The company offers one of the broadest provider networks in the country and leverages its parent company UnitedHealth Group's technology and data capabilities to deliver integrated health services. UnitedHealthcare plans are available in most states through the ACA marketplace, and the company is a leading provider of employer-sponsored group health insurance.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
See all Health Insurance →