National organization (trade association) headquartered in Chicago that represents state and local Blue Cross and Blue Shield health plans and administers rules and regulations for regional Blue plans. BCBSA acts as the administrator for the Health Care Code Maintenance and helps maintain the HCPCS Level II code system. It is America’s oldest and largest family of health benefits companies and the most recognized brands in the health insurance industry. In 1929 it began by assuring hospital care to Texas teachers and providing physician care to lumber and mine workers in the Pacific Northwest. Regional plans process claims for members who have plan coverage for hospital expenses, outpatient care, other institutional services, home care, dental benefits, and vision care. Most of the affiliated organizations have converted to for-profit status, have plans similar to private insurance companies, and operate in much the same way as other private insurance carriers. Blue Cross/Blue Shield may act as a Medicare fiscal intermediary in certain regions. A provider must be contracted with Blue Cross/Blue Shield to receive payment as a member physician.