MI Big Show

An Overweight man at a gym
MI Big Show

Men's Health Month: Men Have Body Image Issues Too

Men worry about their appearance more than you think. Learn how to improve body image and get rid of negative thoughts once and for all.

A young adult man going for a walk outdoors stops to apply eyedrops.
MI Big Show

Finding Relief: Who to Talk to When Allergies Strike

Learn how to spot the telltale signs of a new allergy’s development and where to go to receive qualified care and advice.

Two businesswomen walk, talk and drink coffee in the middle of a workday.
MI Big Show

Top 5 Reasons You Should Walk at Lunch

National Walk at Lunch Day is the perfect excuse to get outside after lunch and rack up some steps. Do it everyday and the health benefits will rack up, too.

Blue Cross Healthy Michigan Spaghetti Squash
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Small Daily Food Swaps Can Net Huge Results

Swapping out your morning caffeine source and afternoon snack for healthier options are two of the many tweaks you can make to your diet.

Preschoolers interacting in class
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5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Preschooler Healthy

Keeping your preschooler healthy can be difficult. Check out these simple reminders to help strengthen their immune system and teach healthy habits.

how to drive in winter weather
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Stay Safe Michigan! How to Drive on Winter Roads

Preparing and knowing how to handle an emergency are two of the most important things you can do before getting behind the wheel in the winter.

hygge philosophy
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Hygge: The Simple Philosophy That Will Make You Love Winter

Why do Danish people tend to rank higher in happiness? It just might have to do with hygge, their philosophy that’s all about coziness and self-care.

The UP Eben Ice Caves.
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The Upper Peninsula’s Eben Ice Caves: Winter Hiking 101

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is full of surprises, including winter ice caves. Get helpful tips on how to hike properly in the winter.

tricks to keep memory sharp
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5 Things to Do Every Day to Keep Your Memory Sharp

Keep your memory sharp as you get older by incorporating these simple habits into your everyday life.

Gourmet Homemade Polish Paczki Donuts with Jelly Filling
MI Big Show

The Story Behind a Festive Michigan Favorite: Paczki Day

Knowing the history of Michigan’s beloved Paczki Day will make this year’s celebration even sweeter.

Woman watching webinar at home
MI Big Show

Celebrate MLK Jr. Day Virtually this Year

Ways to honor and celebrate the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. around the state.

Friends walking dog on the beach
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Fit Like Fido: 5 Healthy Habits You Can Learn From Your Dog

Your dog might slobber and snore, but it also lives a pretty healthy life. Here’s how to find inspiration from your pup to live your healthiest life.

Young woman getting ready for morning run
MI Big Show

Foolproof Ways to Work Out in the Morning

Research shows working out in the morning reinforces a healthy schedule. Read up on tricks that fitness buffs swear by to get you out of bed and into the gym.

Mother Helping Son With Homework Sitting At Desk In Bedroom
MI Big Show

5 Steps to Boost Your Child’s Confidence

By encouraging independence at a young age, you’ll shape your child’s personality and confidence. These 5 tips can help your child become more independent.

Mature African American couple riding bikes in park
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Ride On: Biking and Cycling Tips as You Age

Cycling is growing in popularity among older adults, but biking-related accidents are also on the rise. Here’s how to stay safe on two wheels.

Closeup view of mother putting lunch box into her son's backpack
MI Big Show

Making Sure Back-to-School Lunches Keep Their Cool

Packing your kid’s lunch for school is a way to save money and keep lunch healthy. These safety tips will make sure the food stays good until lunchtime.

Worried African American woman using cell phone while working at home.
MI Big Show

Staying Positive in the Face of Negative Headlines

Overwhelming news stories and stats can quickly put us in a funk. Finding joy in the everyday can help.

woman doing at-home workout, low intensity
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Is Slowing Down the Secret to a Good Workout?

Find out why this low-intensity workout approach is perfect for both beginners and experienced fitness aficionados.

Workdesk with decoration and copy space
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Target All Five Senses to Feel Super Creative at Work

A few tweaks to your workspace can make 9-to-5 your most creative and productive time of the day.

Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis
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Three Places To View Michigan’s Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are tricky to plan for and often unpredictable. Here are some tips and a few of the best places to view them in Michigan.

A multi-ethnic group of young adults are taking a yoga class together at the gym. They are meditating with their eyes closed and focusing on their breathing.
MI Big Show

How Yoga Breathing Can Reduce Your Stress Level

Stress is usually part of your daily routine. However, incorporating yoga and different types of breathing into your daily routine can help lower your stress.

Senior African American Couple Planting in Garden
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Grow Your Garden Without Aches and Pains

Spending time in a garden is good for your physical and mental health–you just have to be careful you don’t overdo it.

dad teaching daughter how to ride a bike
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4 Bike Safety Tips to Keep Kids Safe

Follow these four simple tips to keep your little ones safe this bike riding season.

Woman sneezing into a tissue
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What You Can Do Now to Prepare for Spring Allergies

Why wait until you’re miserable to fight allergies? Simple steps taken in advance can make a world of difference.

Woman voting in gymnasium
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Your Voice, Your Choice: Why Voting is Good for Your Health

Beyond the mere satisfaction you may receive from helping select the next president, voting also has some surprising health benefits.

Man finishing up a workout and looking at his phone
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High-Tech Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Check out these apps that will help you keep track of your heart health.

best exercises for your heart
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The Best Exercises for Your Heart

It seems easy to “stay active” for your heart health, but what does that really mean? We break down some exercises that can keep your heart healthy.

Man writing in food journal
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Do You Make These Mistakes When Setting Goals?

Coming up with a goal is one thing, sticking to it is something else. Here are the top mistakes people make with their resolutions so you know to avoid them.

male breast cancer
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The Breast Cancer Few People Talk About

When you hear about a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s natural to assume it’s a woman who is dealing with the news. But breast cancer can also happen to men.

Image of two schoolgirls walking home from school.
MI Big Show

Why Safe Routes to Schools Matter

In this guest post from Ty Schmidt, executive director of Traverse City-based non-profit organization Norte, learn why walkable communities are good for health.

food festivals in Michigan
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10 Festivals that Celebrate Michigan Food

Unleash your inner foodie at these ten festivals across the state celebrating unique Michigan agricultural crops and products.

Hunting for morels in Michigan
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Mushroom Time: Your Michigan Morel Hunting Guide

With warmer temperatures, searching for the tasty fungi is a great way to get outdoors and take in a beautiful spring day.

Portrait of female potter painting bowl in pottery workshop
MI Big Show

Why Everyone Needs a Creative Outlet

There's a connection between creative pursuits and your mental and physical health. Find out why you should take up a creative hobby today.

Woman walking up the stairs.
MI Big Show

52 Little Habits That Will Help You Create an Amazing 2019

The new year is a great time to renew your commitment to a healthy mind, body and spirit. Here are little tweaks to do just that.

Open pomegranate wtih seeds spilling on table.
MI Big Show

How to Eat a Pomegranate (and Why You Should)

Uncertainty over how to actually eat pomegranates makes many people afraid to buy them. Let this be your guide.

Image of leftovers stacked messily in the fridge.
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Apps and Food Storage Tips to Organize Your Fridge

Staying on top of fridge organization and meal prepping can sometimes fall to the bottom of your to-do list. Here are some kitchen hacks to make life easier.

Electronic Scooters
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Riding a Trend: Tips for Using Electric Scooters

With electric scooters popping up in cities across the country, including Detroit, we decided to scoot out of the office on a lunch break to give them a try.

Shocked dad covering his son's eyes while watching a movie.
MI Big Show

When “Boo!” Becomes “Boo-Hoo”

Before you take your kids to the haunted house or watch a scary movie together, make sure they're emotionally equipped to handle it.

Fall colors on a road in Michigan.
MI Big Show

Michigan November Bucket List: 10 Ways to Embrace the Season

Embrace the fall season by trying some of these fun Michigan activities for November!

Young woman pays for restaurant bill with credit card.
MI Big Show

New College Grads: Prepare for Retirement Today

Going through your college years and saving money can be hard, but here's why it is so important for your future.

a woman in a black dress holding a mask giving candy to a girl in a pink dress.
MI Big Show

Halloween Costumes: Dress Up For Spooky-Yet-Safe Fun

Make this Halloween a spooky yet safe experience for your children and their costumes

breast cancer awareness events
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Healthy & Fun Ways to Support Breast Cancer Awareness in Michigan

October has become synonymous with breast cancer awareness, and all month long you can find events to support the cause happening all around the Mitten State.

Image of a young woman bored at her desk
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Is Fear of Failure Making You Procrastinate?

What really causes people to procrastinate? It might be a fear of failure or anxiety. Read on for tips to cope.

iphone on table
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Unplug to Recharge

The overuse of smart devices could have a negative impact on both mental and physical health.

hogweed
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Michigan’s Most Dangerous Plants: Q&A with a DNR Expert

Spending your time outside and in nature can have a great impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. To stay safe while exploring, understand what types of dangerous plants and insects to keep an eye out for.

Moon Milk: The Bedtime Drink to Help You Fall Asleep
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Moon Milk: The Bedtime Drink to Help You Fall Asleep

Cozy up with a glass of warm Moon Milk to help you with insomnia and sleeplessness.

MI Big Show

Moonlight Yoga Returns to the Detroit Riverfront

Check out this unique yoga experience along the Detroit Riverfront!

Image of a little boy reading a book in a tent
MI Big Show

Stopping the “Summer Slide”

Kids lose up to two months of education in the summer months. Use these tricks to keep them sharp all year long.

Honey Roasted Cherry & Cheese Toast
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Honey Roasted Cherries and Cheese Toast

Michigan is the leading producer of tart cherries in the United States. Support your fellow Michiganders and use cherries for this delicious breakfast or snack!

mackinac bridge
MI Big Show

Across the Straits: The Iconic Mackinac Bridge

The Mighty Mac turns 60 in 2017. Find out what it took to cross the Straits of Mackinac before the bridge’s opening in 1957.

Cheerleaders near track at a football game
MI Big Show

How Multiple Concussions Have Permanently Changed my Life

When we start to take brain injury seriously, we can prevent the everlasting impact my injuries have left me with for the rest of my life.

red, white and blue fruit and cheese app
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Red, White and Blue Fruit and Cheese Appetizer

Going to a Fourth of July party and don't know what to bring? These simple appetizers are perfect for when you're rushing out the door.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
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The Rise of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses in the United States

In the U.S., mosquito-borne illnesses are on the rise and are not showing signs of letting up. Use this guide to help protect your family against these diseases.

Children play at the Water Warrior Island aquatic park
MI Big Show

New Floating Playgrounds for Your Next Family Day Trip

Three state parks have taken the term “playground” to a new level … sea level! Learn how these destinations will ensure fun for all ages this summer.

Best hikes in Michigan
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Tales from the Trail: Favorite Michigan Hikes

There is something about “unplugging” from busy day-to-day lives and then recharging in the Michigan backcountry.

Graduation Picture
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Getting Past the Post-Grad Blues

Post-graduation can be the most stressful time of your career, but here are some excellent tips to stay on track.

Kids, Fitness, Wearables, Technology, Health, Sleep, Exercise, Parents
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Fitness Trackers for Children: A Good or Bad Idea?

Fans of fitness trackers may be interested in getting one for everyone in the family. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

How to survive allergy season
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5 Tips for Surviving Allergy Season

While it’s exciting to head outside and enjoy nature, the change in season also means allergies. Here’s how to nip symptoms in the bud.

Photo of Desiree Linden holding up the American flag after winning the 2018 Boston Marathon.
MI Big Show

Training in Michigan Helped Desiree Linden Win Boston

Desiree Linden said training through part of a nasty Michigan winter helped her tackle brutal conditions on race day to win the 2018 Boston Marathon. “This is a great running state. People get running here,” she said.

Photo of a U.S. Postal Service mailbox.
MI Big Show

A Day in the Life: Are You as Fit as Your Mail Carrier?

In all kinds of weather, postal carriers need to be physically fit to perform their job duties. Find out how one Grand Rapids carrier does it.

Mexico flag
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3 Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Across Michigan

Understand the history behind one of our country’s most popular celebrations, and add one of these events to your holiday calendar.

Wake up and feel refreshed with these easy changes to your morning routine!
MI Big Show

Ways To Spring Clean Your Morning Routine

Refresh your morning routine with these tips that will set you up to seize the day!

purple and pink tulips in bloom
MI Big Show

Holland Tulip Time Festival to Feature Yoga in the Tulips

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is proud to partner with Tulip Time to bring the community a series of special yoga events this May.

A white tropical flower
MI Big Show

Michigan April Bucket List: 10 Ways to Refresh and Explore  

Make April amazing with these fun ideas to refresh your space, explore your state, and nourish yourself with healthy foods and good-for-you moves.

MI Big Show

Baseball is Back! Where to Find Healthy Food in Comerica Park

The Detroit Tigers stadium is full of surprisingly healthy fare–you just have to know where to look.

MI Big Show

Traveling Across Time Zones? How To Fight Jet Lag

Avoid jet leg to enjoy your vacation starting with your flight!

Image of a butterfly on a wall.
MI Big Show

Butterflies are Blooming at GR’s Meijer Gardens

Find out how the more than 7,000 tropical butterflies that call Frederik Meijer Gardens home in March and April make the journey to West Michigan.

MI Big Show

Tips for Beating the Afternoon Slump—No Caffeine Required

Coffee isn’t the only way to get the pick-me-up you need to get you through the day.

Brain games
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The Truth Behind Brain Games: Do They Really Work?

There is a growing market for games that supposedly improve your brain’s function. But before you buy one, there are some things you should know.

A spring robin perched on a tree branch.
MI Big Show

Michigan March Bucket List: 10 Ideas to Usher in a New Season

Hello, March! This month, welcome spring by greening up your home and yard, planning a close-to-home vacation, taking a hike and more.

MI Big Show

5 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Long Runs

Training for a longer-distance race? A veteran coach shares his tips to make your weekly long runs count.

MI Big Show

Team Up With Your Partner for a Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day

Wellness may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Valentine’s Day, but it’s a great day to prioritize your heart health.

Two kids coming down a water slide
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Make a Splash at Michigan’s Indoor Water Parks

Michigan is beautiful, but beach season is short. If you’re craving warmth and water, you’re only a road trip away from one of these indoor water parks.

taco salad
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Tired of Tacos? Remix Your Family Favorite With These Recipes

Make the most of your taco night with these different taco inspired recipes.

MI Big Show

Easy Ways to Keep the Air in Your Home Clean

Cleaning the air you breathe is a top wellness trend of 2018. Here’s how to start keeping your air clean today.

MI Big Show

Feeling Sad the Holidays Are Over? Try These Awesome Michigan Activities

These five winter-only activities will get you out of the house and having fun.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Symptoms Research Self-Diagnosis Emergency Room WebMD
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Love Researching Symptoms Online? Avoid Self-Diagnosing Into the ER

Self-diagnosis is unavoidable thanks to all of the online sources available for symptoms. Here’s when to go to the ER and when to get help somewhere else.

MI Big Show

Want to Sleep Better? 6 Daytime Dos and Don’ts

These quick and easy fixes will have you sleeping better at night and leave you feeling energized during the day.

Volunteers paint a freeway overpass
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Lansing Overpass Gets New Life as #Penn4People Mural

Lansing community members proudly painted a new mural, #Penn4People, in partnership with Lansing Economic Area Partnership.

MI Big Show

Do You Really Know the Germiest Spots in Your House?

Prepare to get grossed out. Here are the spots in your home that hold on to the most germs.

night time scene with string lights and a red arrow with a sign attached to it.
MI Big Show

Beyond the Pumpkin Patch: Fall and Halloween Activities to Explore Across Michigan

Michigan offers many unique excursions during the fall and Halloween season. Try one of these suggestions!

MI Big Show

6 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling

These six tips can help keep you and your family healthy while on vacation.

Two college-aged girls studying a stack of books.
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College Students: Get to Know Your Health Plan

Many Millennials don’t understand how health insurance works, where to apply or what’s available to them. Become educated on how to obtain and receive care.

Bell peppers with cheese and stuffing.
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Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers

This recipe is great for an easy dinner or leftover lunch. Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and pop the peppers in the oven after a busy day.

MI Big Show

Annoying Co-Workers? Tips to Help You Cope

Sometimes you can’t get along with everyone, but there are ways to deal with pesky co-workers.

How to transition to back to school time
MI Big Show

Back to School: 7 Steps to a Better Bedtime Routine

Summer is coming to an end, which means it’s time to get serious about bedtime. Here’s how to make the transition smooth for everyone.

A girl outside who is giving a big smile
MI Big Show

3 Points to Consider When Choosing the Right Therapist for You

Advice from a therapist on choosing the right therapist.

white rocking chairs on a sea foam green deck
MI Big Show

New Suites, Renovations Greet Guests for Grand Hotel’s 130th Season

Staying at the Grand Hotel this summer? You’ll notice updated and refreshed spaces that welcome guests to the storied hotel’s 130th season.

people running in a marathon
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The Risks and Rewards of Marathons: Read Before You Start Training

Running a marathon isn’t easy. Here’s how to stay injury-free every time you lace up your tennis shoes.

mexican pizza with cauliflower crust
MI Big Show

A Healthier Twist on a Restaurant Favorite: Mexican Pizza with Cauliflower Crust

One cheese pizza slice contains about 175 calories, and 30 grams of carbs. Try this healthier twist on traditional restaurant pizza.

Caleb Neubecker
MI Big Show

#MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Caleb Neubecker

Meet the Blue Cross Blue Shield #MIKidsCan Champion of the month, Caleb Neubecker of Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

stop being a picky eater
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Are You a Picky Eater? Here’s How to Learn to Love New Food

It’s easier than you think to expand your palate and start trying and liking new healthy foods. Here’s how to do it.

hiking to black rocks
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Why Hiking to Marquette’s Black Rocks is Worth It

Every season is the right season to explore the Black Rocks at Marquette’s Presque Isle Park.

Trendy Health Buzzwords Detox Cleanse All-Natural
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Trendy Health Buzzwords: What Do They Really Mean?

Don’t get confused by all the healthy eating buzzwords floating around—this cheat sheet breaks them all down for you.

grocery shopping
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Nine Ways to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half

Staying on budget when grocery shopping is no easy task. Keep these nine tips in mind next time you’re walking through the aisles.

a closeup of a mans mouth as he exhales smoke.
MI Big Show

The Dilemma Posed by E-Cigarettes

New research about e-cigarettes might surprise you. Blue Care Network senior medical director Dr. Duane DiFranco helps break down the results of a new study.

why exercise is important for weight loss
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Why Exercise is Still Important for Weight Loss

You can’t outrun a bad diet, so the saying goes. However, healthy weight loss should definitely still include exercise.

preparing your kids for success in sports
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Prepare Your Kids for Success in Sports

With a little preparation, you can make sure your kids fall in love with sports and feel good about themselves.

Prescribing park time
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Idea We Love: Doctors Prescribing Parks

Read about why park prescriptions could be coming to a doctor’s office near you.

how to help kids deal with criticism
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#MIKidsCan: Teach Your Kids to Deal with Criticism

As a parent, it’s important to teach your kids how to deal with criticism–both negative and positive. Here’s how to do just that.

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
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