BCBS Georgia Introduces Tonik

Young adults between the ages of 19 and 34 -- also known as "young invincibles" -- represent one of the largest and fastest-growing segments of the population without health insurance. Almost 17 million "young invincibles" are uninsured throughout the country, including 40,000 in Georgia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. To help address this issue, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa), the state's largest health benefits provider, announced today the launch of Tonik -- unique health insurance options for Georgia's "young invincibles," designed to decrease the number of Georgia's uninsured.

Young invincibles" typically are no longer covered by family insurance policies and are just beginning to establish their independence. They are also just beginning their careers and less likely to be offered or purchase health insurance from their employers.

"Tonik is an important product that allows this growing demographic to purchase coverage on their own terms," said Monye Connolly, president, BCBSGa. "We asked 'young invincibles' what they were looking for in a health plan, and we listened. The end result is Tonik -- a plan that makes it easy to understand the concepts and terminology associated with health insurance and provides easy access to a health insurance product they can relate to."

Tonik health plans were designed with input from "young invincibles" throughout the country in an effort to create the most appropriate product possible in order to decrease the numbers of uninsured and expand access to health care coverage. This product -- first introduced in 2004 -- has already been launched in California, Colorado and Nevada. Approximately 78 percent of current Tonik enrollees were previously uninsured.

BCBSGa is offering three Tonik plans -- flexible PPO products that include medical, pharmacy, dental and vision. Prices depend on the plan and the insured's age, medical history and where they live.

"We found through our research that this group wants head-to-toe coverage in one easy-to-understand product. And with Tonik plans beginning at less than $100 a month, we are able to offer the type of coverage they are looking for at rates most 'young invincibles' can afford," said Connolly. "By introducing innovative new products and services like Tonik, BCBSGa is constantly working to improve our members' health, enhance health care quality and address affordability for our members."

Applying for Tonik is simple and quick. Individuals can visit and apply for Tonik online at http://www.tonikhealthquotes.com/ or contact their independent agent. Applicants who apply online are subject to review, but approval can be as short as a few minutes.