Starting Jan. 1, 2026, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) members enrolled in an employer group or ACA health care plan have expanded access to virtual care through Telescope Health.
Founded and led by physicians, Telescope Health offers BCBSNE members new virtual care capabilities, including behavioral health visits and a 24/7 nurse line.
“The addition of Telescope Health gives our members wrap-around care and support,” said Dr. Amy Helwig, BCBSNE’s chief medical officer. “If they need care when their regular provider isn’t available, or if they don’t have a regular primary care physician, a Telescope Health provider can help fill that gap. Our goal is to help ensure our members have access to affordable care when they need it.”
The addition of virtual mental health visits through Telescope Health is especially impactful for rural communities across Nebraska. According to the Behavioral Health Education Center of Nebraska, 24 of Nebraska’s 93 counties don’t have behavioral health care providers. BCBSNE and Telescope are working together to bridge this gap in care by providing secure video appointments from the comfort of members’ homes. Appointments include consultations, therapy sessions, medication management and follow-up care.
In addition to behavioral health services, BCBSNE members can work with Telescope’s virtual care providers for situations like sudden rashes or fevers, minor sports injuries, concerns about a cold or illness becoming more serious and more. With all services, members have the option to allow their virtual care provider to share clinical notes with their regular primary care provider, helping ensure coordination and continuity of care that supports both preventive services and long-term health management.
“Our mission at Telescope Health has always been to remove barriers to care through technology, innovation, and—above all—authentic human connection,” said Dr. Matthew Thompson, Telescope’s CEO and co-founder. “Patients deserve true advocacy and expert navigation throughout their entire healthcare journey. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska embodies this same unwavering dedication to putting members first. We are deeply honored to collaborate with them on a customized, data-driven solution that improves outcomes through personalized guidance and seamless navigation every step of the way.”
Learn more about Telescope Health at NebraskaBlue.com/Telehealth.
