Since you can only change your health insurance during Open Enrollment, it’s very important to confirm that your provider is “In Network”. PROBLEM: The networks are getting increasingly smaller – and it’s especially difficult if you’re trying to find more than 1 provider in a single network.
Additionally (and very important) – If you purchase your coverage through Covered CA, you may see your provider in the plan’s online provider directory, but when you actually visit the provider, they often won’t accept your plan! Therefore, here is my suggestion…
Call your provider(s) and ask them this question: “Are you considered in-network for any individual carriers if I purchase my plan through Covered CA“.
If the provider states that they accept a given plan AND the provider appears in the plan’s online directory, then I believe you can feel confident that your provider will accept your plan when you present your member card at the provider’s office.
Neil Steinman is the principal of Orange County Health & Life Insurance in Orange County, CA – and has been serving the needs of California residents for nearly 20 years.