BCBS-basic vs standard

Starting Sept 1st I will be cover by BCBS for fed employees, but I am having a hard time choosing between the basic plan and the standard plan. I was told the only REAL difference is that one has a deductible and allows you to go out of network (with less beneifts coverage of course). Either way I was told they both cover the surgery and have the same requirements. I basically want to choose the one that will give me more bang for my buck and would cost me less out of pocket when it comes to bariatric surgery. Does anyone have suggestions or know first hand of the financial difference? If it helps I am hoping to have gastric bypass with Dr Blackstone. Any feedback would be appreciated.

Hi!!  I have BCBS fep- standard option.  I think the main difference is that Basic pays more if you use the in-network doctors.  Basic does not pay if you use any other doctor or hospital.  Standard pays either way, but pays a larger share if you use preferred providers.  So far, with standard option, I have paid: $200 to the nutritionist (filed a claim and it was covered) $15 to the psycholgist   $625 to my surgeon (includes my $250 deductible and 10% of allowable surgeons fee- I hope to get some of this back!!) $100 to the hospital (that is the hospital deductible - all other charges are covered). So, so far it has cost me $940 out of pocket.  My surgery is Tuesday and I don't expect any other bills.  I hope to get some of the surgeon's fee back.  Good Luck and take care!!

Potter fan huh? :-) Thanks for the info. I want to choose the basic from what I understand on the benefits but I just didn't wanted to be cheated out of service that are covered by choosing the lower option. Thanks again for the feedback Muggle!