See in-network doctors

Things never stay the same! Your internist retires, you need a specialist, you change health plans, or you relocate. There are lots of reasons for not seeing your regular doctor.

When that happens, you need to think about whether your new doctor is in your insurance company's network.

Do you have to think about it? Not really. But it might cost you big bucks if you don't.

Save 20–50% by staying in-network

The good news is, your new doctor probably is a part of your insurer's network – which probably also includes specialists, hospitals, urgent care centers, pharmacies, and dentists.

And that's where the advantage comes in.

Membership has its privileges

You've heard that phrase used to advertise everything from credit cards to gyms. Everyone wants to sell you on the advantages of belonging to a certain group.

Having health insurance really does pay off. It gives you access to deep discounts on healthcare services your insurance company has negotiated because it has a lot of members who go to that provider. These discounts save you money on your healthcare services. So take advantage of your member status by using in-network providers.

Here's how your insurance works for you

With your insurance company, you generally have the option of using in-network or out-of-network providers.

In-network providers – doctors, hospitals, pharmacies, and others – have agreed to be part of your insurer's network and to offer their services at a special contract price.
Out-of-network providers are considered "nonparticipating" and have not made any fee arrangements with your insurance company. While you can choose to see a "non-par" provider, this is where you may pay the big bucks by paying non-discounted rates.

It's totally a cost issue for you. Because you have health insurance, you receive discounts on your healthcare because your insurer has negotiated fees with its in-network providers. You generally pay a copayment and your insurer picks up the appropriate percentage of your negotiated costs. Then, if you must pay any other costs, you usually pay those at the negotiated rate as well.

How to find an in-network provider

Most of the doctors, pharmacies, and hospitals you prefer to visit are probably already part of your insurer's network. Your insurance company will either provide a print directory of in-network providers or, more likely, a constantly updated directory will be available online.

Bottom line:

Take advantage of your member status by using network providers. You can look forward to paying less for your healthcare services and select from a wide range of providers. This membership really does have its privileges!

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