Blue Cross unveils new app to find doctors

PROVIDENCE – A new mobile app that enables Rhode Islanders to search online for a doctor, hospital or urgent care center was released on Aug. 15 by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island.
The Blue National Doctor & Hospital Finder app is available for use on iPhones, iPads and iPod Touch. A version of the app for Android smart phones will be available later this year.
The tool is available for free to both members and nonmembers. It allows users to easily locate in-network doctors and hospitals, both locally and nationwide.
The mobile app has GPS navigation, an interactive map and driving directions; text and email options allow information collected during a search to be shared and saved.
The “click-to call” feature dials a phone number with one tap on the phone’s screen, eliminating the need to memorize a new, unfamiliar phone number.
“Rather than waiting with a young child for treatment in some out-of-state emergency room, for instance, you’ll be able to use your mobile device to quickly locate a nearby, in-network pediatrician and get your child the medical treatment he needs,” said Jim Gallagher, assistant vice president of strategic marketing and innovation at Blue Cross. “Instead of going through the phone book or relying on word-of-mouth referrals from friends and family, you’ll be able to help your mom or dad identify a nearby heart specialist using your home computer.”
The mobile app is available for at the Apple iTunes store or at www.bcbs.com/mobile.
While there is no charge for the app, rates from your wireless provider may apply.