Individual Health Insurance Plans- In-Network Providers vs. Out-of-Network Providers
When looking for a new Individual Health Insurance Plan it’s important to know what your looking for in your plan.
Such as what doctors are in their plans network. You’ll want to make sure that your doctor is included if you have one.
The difference between in-network providers and out-of-network providers.
Insurance companies work with a select group of clinics, doctors, and pharmacies call in-network providers. They have agreements with these providers that state that they’ll only charge you so much for a procedure or. prescription. This helps the insurance company keep its cost down.
If your doctor is in their network and lets say you have a standard doctors visit the doctor may have a set cost that they can charge you- say $100. The insurance company knows that’s all they will charge you or them.
However, If you had the same visit with an out-of-network doctor, they could charge $150 for the same visit. Costing the insurance more money.
Most network insurance plans cover their cost by passing it on to you. They do this by either charging you a higher co-pay or a larger percentage for your coinsurance, usually both.
If you have a family doctor that you wish keep you’ll want to contact them to see which insurance companies that they except and see if those companies have a plan that fits your needs. If not you may need to consider finding another doctor that is in the plan that you’ve chosen. If you must change I’d get a referral from your current doctor.
As with any major decision when purchasing your health insurance I recommend that you take your time to make sure you’re getting the best deal that meets your needs.
With the Internet it’s quick and simple to get multiple quotes in a few minutes. Always check at least 2 sites prior to making your decision.
These sites will help you select your new Individual Health Insurance Plan. ehealthinsurance.com and Health Plans of America.. Free reprint available from: Individual Health Insurance Plans- In-Network Providers vs. Out-of-Network Providers.
June 15, 2011 | Posted by Jeff Kenzie
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