Medical Benefits
Discover what may be covered and what programs and services are included with medical benefit coverage.
Explore your medical benefit options with:
CareFirst
For over 85 years, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield provided healthcare coverage for Marylanders, and we’re committed to your care beyond the walls of a doctor’s office. We meet you where you are with tools to help you show up at your best, to do your best. Because when it comes to better health, you shouldn’t have to wait. As the largest healthcare insurer in the Mid-Atlantic region, we work to ensure that healthcare is easy to afford, easy to use and available to everyone. Because we’re building the healthcare experience we want for our families and for our future.
CareFirst. It’s not just our name, it’s our promise.
Carefirst Plan Information
We design our health plans with one thing in mind—you. Our plans give you the freedom to get the care you need, when and where you need it and include:
- The largest network of doctors in the region
- No referrals needed
- Ways to manage your health care expenses
- No charge for many benefits such as in-network adult physicals, well-child exams, immunizations, screenings and more
- Focused support with our Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) program
- Free 24/7 medical advice line at 800-535-9700
- Virtual Care allows members to securely connect with a provider for urgent care services and behavioral health like therapy and psychiatry. To learn more, visit the CareFirst website
To learn more, view or download the CareFirst State of Maryland Employee Benefit Options - PDF - 2.38 MB and watch the following videos on youtube.com to learn more:
Watch the State of Maryland 2026 Plan Year Presentation to learn more about your benefits.
CareFirst’s PPO
You have the freedom to choose your own doctor or specialist, every time you need care.
- Office visits are covered for minimal copay.
- Out-of-Area Coverage: You will receive one of the most widely recognized and accepted health care identification cards in the United States – BlueCard. So now, you can take your health care benefits with you – across the country and around the world. Visit the BlueCard website to get started.
CareFirst EPO
You drive your own health care decisions by enjoying many hassle-free benefits. Members selecting the EPO plan must select their providers from a national network and must stay in-network to receive coverage benefits.
- No out-of-network coverage.
Mental Health Services will be provided through CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.
- In order to maximize benefits, members should seek services through a participating CareFirst PPO provider. Visit the CareFirst website.
- Inpatient treatment is covered at 100% of allowed benefit. Preauthorization is required through Magellan Health Services.
- Outpatient services are covered at 100% after a $15 copay.
- Adult Vision Care: Benefits for Members 19 Years and Older
- Pediatric Vision Care: Benefits for Members through Age 18
You have access to an expanded network of vision providers through Davis Vision* in addition to the BCBS PPO network. For more information, visit the CareFirst Vision Provider website.
CareFirst Wellbeing is a wellness program designed to help you live a healthier life, reach your wellness goals and earn rewards like $0 PCP copays and reduced specialist copays for completing healthy activities. The State of Maryland is continuing its Wellness Plan in 2027. Any activities that were completed in 2026 will carry over to 2027.
Three rewards you can earn:
- Free PCP visits
- $5 reduction to your specialist copay for wellness screenings
- $5 reduction to your specialist copay for vision exams
Wellness Discount Program
As CareFirst members, you will also receive access to our Wellness Discount Program, which provides you with discounts on alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic services, yoga and more. For more information visit the CareFirst website .
- Customer Service: Need Help? Phone and online services are available. Call 800-225-0131 for dedicated customer service.
- 24/7 Nurse Line: 800-535-9700 for advice anytime
- Virtual Care: See a doctor anytime.
- For more information visit the CareFirst State of MD website.
Member Tools
CareFirst Find a Doctor website
Search to see if your provider is in the network or to find a provider.
CareFirst MyAccount website
Your place for customized plan information. If you haven’t registered for My Account, get started today.
UnitedHealthcare
A simpler health care experience awaits
At UnitedHealthcare, we want to help you make the most out of your health plan so you can save time and money and be the healthiest you possible. Learn more about the benefits and services included in our plans at the UnitedHealthcare State of Maryland Employees and Retirees website . Or you can watch the State of Maryland: “Why UnitedHealthcare may be right for you” video in English or Spanish , which is specific to your Maryland benefits. You can also learn more about UnitedHealthcare by reading the Why UnitedHealthcare flier - PDF [PDF].
UnitedHealthcare Plan Information
We are committed to giving you access to a better health care experience. Learn more about how UnitedHealthcare can help give you the personalized care and solutions you and your family deserve:
- National network with over 1.8 million providers, including a broad local network in Maryland
- A local Maryland 24/7 Customer Advocate team
- Easier ways to get care through 24/7 Virtual Visits, 24-hour nurse, virtual primary and specialist care and more
- Digital tools, such as myuhc.com® and the UnitedHealthcare® app, that help you easily estimate medical costs, find network doctors, review claims and manage your health
- Preventive services covered at 100% when you stay in network**
- Diagnostic breast and lung cancer screenings paid at 100% of allowed amount
- No referrals needed to see specialists
- Confidential behavioral health support through virtual visits, in-person appointments or digital tools
- Wellness programs including One Pass Select® fitness membership program
*As of June 2025
** Certain preventive care items and services, including immunizations, are provided as specified by applicable law, including the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), with no cost-sharing to you. These services may be based on your age and other health factors. Other routine services may be covered under your plan, and some plans may require copayments, coinsurance or deductibles for these benefits. Always review your benefit plan documents to determine your specific coverage details.
| Choice EPO | ChoicePlus PPO |
|---|---|
| You will either be responsible for copays for doctor visits that are not considered preventive care or have certain services covered at 100%. | You will have copays for network doctor visits that are not considered preventive care. You are responsible for coinsurance until you have met your out-of-pocket maximum. |
| You will only have coverage in our network. If you choose to see a doctor outside of our network, you will likely have to pay for services out of pocket. | You have out-of-network coverage. You will have a deductible and 30% co-insurance responsibility. |
No matter which UnitedHealthcare plan you choose, you’ll have access to our local network that includes every hospital in Maryland plus our broad national network (of over 1.8 million physicians and health care professionals).
You will also have:
- Single toll-free number for all medical and mental health benefits
- Access to 175,000 vision provider access* points nationwide (including Warby Parker and USA Glasses)
- Visits with specialists without needing a referral
- Mental health and substance use benefits including virtual visits, in-person appointments, family support and digital tools
- Ability to see a doctor anytime with a 24/7 Virtual Visit, or call your doctor using telemedicine (if available)
- Virtual primary and specialist care through myuhc.com or the UnitedHealthcare® app
For more information, view or download:
- UnitedHealthcare’s 2026 State of Maryland enrollment brochure
- UnitedHealthcare’s 2026 State of Maryland Spanish enrollment brochure
- Vision Plan overview - PDF
- 24/7 Virtual Visits overview - PDF
- Virtual primary care overview - PDF
- Virtual specialists care overview - PDF
*As of June 2025
Our vision benefits are designed to meet your lifestyle, eye care and eyewear needs.
- Broad vision network: The plan uses UnitedHealthcare Vision Network (formerly Spectera Vision Network), a national network of eye doctors including private providers as well as retail vision stores.
- Eye exams: Your vision benefits include a routine annual eye exam.
- ExpressExam: UnitedHealthcare Vision members can renew eyewear prescriptions virtually with ExpressExam at no additional cost. Learn more by viewing the ExpressExam flier - PDF.
- Contact lens allowance: You may have coverage for a fitting and follow-up visits depending on your plan design and lens choice.
- Lens options: Popular lens options, like UV protection or anti-reflective coating, are available at price-protected amounts.
- Additional pairs of glasses: Receive a 20% discount on additional pairs of eyeglasses, including prescription sunglasses.
- Hearing aid discounts: You can get preferred pricing on custom-programmed hearing aids through UnitedHealthcare Hearing. Learn more by viewing the Hearing Discount flier. - PDF
Read the Vision Plan overview - PDF to learn more about the vision benefit. Or go to myuhcvision.com to learn about specific benefits and coverage amounts or to find a network vision provider near you.
The State of Maryland is continuing its Wellness Plan in 2026. Any activities that were completed in 2025 will carry over to 2026. Participating in this plan can help you save money on your health care with $0 copays on PCP and office visits and 24/7 Virtual Visits, plus a reduction in specialist visit copays. UnitedHealthcare offers tools to help make it easier to complete the wellness activities and track your health care.
One Pass Select®
Discover a subscription well-being program that offers flexible fitness options and the ability to use thousands of gyms nationwide plus digital fitness classes. You can also get a grocery delivery subscription included with your subscription. View or download the OnePass Select flier. - PDF
UHC Rewards
Get in on an experience that’s designed to help inspire healthier habits. Get more out of your health plan with UnitedHealthcare Rewards, where complete wellness actions such as personal missions or public challenges. Plus, use UHC Rewards to track your Wellness Plan activities on myuhc.com® or in the UnitedHealthcare® app.
Wellos
You deserve more than a one-size-fits-all wellness program. That’s why Wellos uses smart coaching technology to personalize your health journey and work with your lifestyle. With insights and recommendations based on your personal habits, Wellos responds to what you learn, what you eat, what you need, and what you know.
Real Appeal®
Join a weight loss program with live online coaching, interactive videos, digital tools and a success kit shipped to your door to help you make small behavior changes. View or download the Real Appeal overview - PDF.
Quit for Life®
Enroll for support from a Quit Coach® who can help you create a realistic plan to quit tobacco, overcome cravings and stay motivated. You may qualify for complimentary nicotine replacement therapy. View or download the Quit for Life overview - PDF.
Disease and Case Management programs
If you need help managing a specific chronic condition, or if you need long-term support after a hospitalization or a catastrophic health event, we have nurses who can help. Our condition management programs offer personalized support with digital applications and messaging for a more integrated relationship with your nurse.
Maternity Support
Throughout your pregnancy, access resources to answer your questions and support you during your pregnancy and after delivery. Start by taking a maternity support assessment, which only takes minutes to complete. Based on your responses, a maternity nurse may reach out to you and connect you with the care you need, answer your questions and support you every step of the way. View or download the maternity support overview - PDF.
UnitedHealthcare provides benefits to help you feel more in control of your emotional well‐being. Your Mental Health benefit can help you effectively deal with stressful and challenging situations. View or download the mental health benefits overview - PDF. Visit the Live and Work Well website and use access code “UHC” to learn more.
Calm Health
You may have heard about or even used the Calm app. Now get access to its most popular features and much more with Calm Health. Available through UnitedHealthcare benefits at no additional cost to you, it includes content written by licensed psychologists. Work toward well-being goals like:
- Better sleep
- Building skills to manage stress
- Developing resiliency
- Starting and building a mindfulness habit
It’s all self-guided, so you can go at your own pace. View or download the Calm Health flier - PDF.
Behavioral Health Virtual Visits
Behavioral virtual visits let you talk to a behavioral health professional from your mobile device, tablet or computer. View or download the Behavioral Health Virtual Care overview - PDF.
Behavioral Health in-person visits
Get personal support with a psychiatrist or therapist for a specific diagnosis, including substance use treatment benefits.
Family Support Program
Get tailored education, support, referrals, and provider/specialist searches to help you make educated, confident decisions for your child and family.
- Learn more about the benefits and services included in our plans by visiting the State of Maryland employees and retirees website or call 1-800-382-7513.
- Discover vision benefits available through the UnitedHealthcare Vision website.
- Find information on behavioral health support and search for a provider on the Live and Work Well website and use access code “UHC” to learn more.
- Watch the UnitedHealth Premium® Program video.
- Watch “Digital Tools to Manage Your Plan” video.
- Visit the myuhc.com® website or download the UnitedHealthcare® app to manage your plan on the App Store® or Google Play™.
Kaiser Permanente
At Kaiser Permanente, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live a healthier life — and we make that easier by bringing care together in one connected system. As a State of Maryland employee, you can choose a plan that gives you access to doctors, specialists, and tools that help you stay well.
Our 1,800+ physicians across 60+ specialties deliver coordinated care at more than 35+ Kaiser Permanente locations throughout Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Whether you need preventive care, specialty treatment, or support managing your health day‑to‑day, we’re here with care that’s convenient and compassionate.
Learn more about your plan options at the Kaiser Permanente State of Maryland website or call Member Services at 855‑839‑5763.
Kaiser Permanente
A healthy partnership
Your doctor should be someone who truly advocates for your health — someone who listens, guides, and helps you get the care you need. With Kaiser Permanente, you can choose from a wide range of physicians and switch anytime. Explore our doctors and specialties on the Kaiser Permanente website.
Great care, great results
Great health starts with great care. From preventive screenings to treatment for serious conditions, you’ll have access to coordinated care supported by advanced technology and leading medical research. See why Kaiser Permanente is the region’s leading health system on the Kaiser Permanente website.
Care the way you want it
Get care on your terms — online, by phone, at our medical centers, and more. You have 24/7 access to health advice, plus the ability to email your doctor’s office anytime for non‑urgent questions. Learn more about convenient care options on the Kaiser Permanente website.
And when you’re traveling, you’re covered, too. Find out how to get care away from home by visiting the Kaiser Permanente website.
Care that supports every stage of your health
From preventive screenings that keep you well to personalized care when you need it most, Kaiser Permanente delivers connected, high‑quality care designed to help you thrive.
- Preventive care to keep you healthy — Prevention is at the heart of how we practice medicine. Regular screenings and proactive care can help you avoid certain health issues — and catch others early when they’re easier to treat.
- Specialty care when you need it — If you get sick or need advanced care, we make it simple to connect with the right specialist. And for certain specialties — including obstetrics‑gynecology, psychiatry, and drug dependency services — you can access care without a referral.
- Support for ongoing conditions — Members managing conditions like diabetes or heart disease are automatically enrolled in our disease management programs, giving you personalized coaching, guidance, and support to help you stay on track.
- A leader in providing quality care — Kaiser Permanente is nationally recognized for delivering high‑quality care to our members. Learn more about our award‑winning approach on the Kaiser Permanente website.
Choose how to get care
- Video: Want a convenient, secure way to see a doctor wherever you are? Meet face-to-face with a doctor 24/7, no appointment necessary. To learn more, watch the videos on the Kaiser Permanente website .
- Note: This visit is not with your primary care doctor but will be with the next available on-demand clinician. Learn more about on-demand care.
- Phone: Have a condition that doesn’t require an in-person exam? We offer care guidance and advice by phone 24/7.
- In person: Visit your doctor for routine care, preventive services, care when you’re not feeling well and more.
Other ways to get care in the moment
- E-visit: Answer a brief questionnaire to receive care from a physician. You’ll get a response within 2 hours— usually sooner.
- 24/7 Get care now: Have an on-demand video or phone visits with a doctor for urgent health concerns—usually in less than 30 minutes.1
- 24/7 Phone advice: Talk with a nurse for advice, scheduling appointments, and more.
- Email: Email your doctor’s office anytime with non-urgent questions. You’ll usually get a response within two business days, if not sooner.
- App: Download the Kaiser Permanente app on the App Store® or Google Play™ , to manage routine appointments, refill most prescriptions for mail-order delivery, see most test results and more. As a member, you can keep up with your care on the Kaiser Permanente website.
1When appropriate and available. If you travel out of state, phone appointments and video visits may not be available in select states due to licensing laws. Laws differ by state.
Good health goes beyond the doctor’s office. Explore some of the convenient resources available to members.
Special rates for members
Enjoy reduced rates on services that can help you stay healthy like gym memberships, acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care. To learn more, visit the Kaiser Permanente website .
Self-care apps
Navigate mental and emotional challenges and help improve your sleep, mood, relationships and more with wellness apps, available at no cost to adult members. To learn more, visit the Kaiser Permanente website .
Healthy lifestyle programs
Connect to better health with online programs to help you lose weight, quit smoking, reduce stress and more – all at no cost. To learn more, visit the Kaiser Permanente website .
Personal wellness coaching
Get help reaching your health goals. Work on-one with a wellness coach by phone at no cost. To learn more, visit the Kaiser Permanente website .
Online wellness tools
For wellness information, health calculators, fitness videos, podcasts and recipes from world-class chefs, visit the Kaiser Permanente website .
Health classes
Sign up for health classes and support groups at many of our facilities. See what’s available near you at Kaiser Permanente website – some may require a fee.
A team dedicated to your mental well‑being
Our mental health professionals are deeply committed to helping people feel supported, understood, and empowered. Your care team brings together experts across multiple disciplines to provide compassionate, evidence‑based care.
They include:
- Adult psychiatrists
- Child and adolescent psychiatrists
- Addiction medicine physicians
- Psychologists
- Licensed clinical social workers
- Psychiatric clinical nurses
- Substance abuse counselors
- Health educators
Learn more about the mental health care available to our members on the Kaiser Permanente website.
- Learn more about Kaiser Permanente on the Kaiser Permanente website
- Learn about the virtual care options available on the Kaiser Permanente website
- Learn about our specialty care available on the Kaiser Permanente website
- Watch Care and Coverage at Kaiser Permanente made easy video (English)
- Watch Care and Coverage at Kaiser Permanente made easy video (Spanish)
- Watch Dr. Collier on Advanced Urgent care video
- Watch Member Daniela S on Cancer video