Blue Distinction Centers for Cellular Immunotherapy

Cellular immunotherapy may be an option for some patients who need treatments to help the immune system fight diseases like cancer. At Blue Shield of California, we know that finding a hospital that provides quality cellular immunotherapy is important to many of our members.

What are Blue Distinction Centers?

Blue Distinction® Centers are recognized for distinguished clinical care and processes by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We're proud that several facilities within Blue Shield's network of hospitals are designated as Blue Distinction Centers for Cellular Immunotherapy.

Facilities earn this designation based on rigorous, evidence-based, objective criteria and input from expert physicians and medical organizations. The goal of this recognition is to help all Blues health plan members – and others – find quality specialty care on a consistent basis, while enabling and encouraging healthcare professionals to improve the overall quality and delivery of care nationwide. 

Studies indicate Blue Distinction Centers have better overall outcomes and lower costs for certain procedures when compared to non-designated medical facilities. By providing this information to our members, we can continue to help them make informed health care decisions. 

Participation in the Blue Distinction Centers for Cellular Immunotherapy program is voluntary for hospitals. Facilities not referenced either did not meet the criteria or chose not to participate in the program at this time. Blue Shield will continue to work with interested hospitals to improve reporting data and measurement tools for future inclusion in this program.

Blue Distinction Criteria

The criteria for selection to the Blue Distinction Centers for Cellular Immunotherapy program were developed with input from physician experts and medical organizations and include a comprehensive evaluation of structure, process, and outcome measures. The program focuses on chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapies, which help to genetically re-engineer the patient’s white blood cells. CAR-T therapy is a new treatment option for some cancer patients, requiring a high level of physician expertise. As new CAR-T treatments are approved by the FDA, the program will expand to meet patient needs. 

Learn more about the Blue Distinction program. 

Note: Designation as Blue Distinction Centers means these facilities' overall experience and aggregate data met objective criteria established in collaboration with expert clinician and leading professional organizations' recommendations. Individual outcomes may vary. Before making an appointment, find out which services are covered under your policy at any facility by calling Blue Shield Customer Service and check with your provider to verify the most current information regarding their Network participation status. Neither the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association nor any of its Licensees are responsible for any damages, losses, or non-covered charges that may result from using this website or receiving care from a provider listed in this website.