Before you go to the doctor or other health care provider, make sure they're included in your health plan's network of providers. Your health plan's provider directory of in-network doctors, hospitals and other types of health care providers is available through the insurance company's website or a printed copy is available upon request.
In-network providers
- Visit your health insurance company's website and search for their provider directory connected to your plan (some plans call it "find a doctor" or "find a provider").
- Call your doctor's office or health care provider's billing office to double check that they accept your plan.
- Call your health insurance company to ask about specific providers. You can find the phone number on your insurance card and on your insurer's website.
Out-of-network providers
An out-of-network provider is a medical provider that is not listed in your health plan's provider directory and is not covered under your health plan's "in-network benefits."
Be sure to call your health insurance company to find out what out-of-network charges you will have to pay if you see a doctor or medical provider not in your plan's network.