Your network
One easy way to save money on health care is to know your network and to only use doctors who are in your network.
What's the general bottom line?
- In network = cheaper for you
Out of network = more costly for you
Why does my network matter to me?
A network is a group of doctors, clinics and other health care providers who have worked with us to set special prices just for you. When a health care provider is in your network, it's called "in network." Your plan has one copay, coinsurance, deductible and out-of-pocket maximum for providers that are in your network. When you use in-network providers, BridgeSpan pays for more of the bill.
If you choose a provider outside of your network (also called a nonpreferred or non-network provider), BridgeSpan pays less, meaning you pay more out of your own pocket. An out-of-network provider may charge you more than an in-network provider. Plus you'll pay a separate out-of-network deductible, a separate out-of-pocket maximum, a higher out-of-network coinsurance and probably a higher copay.
How do I find out what my network is?
Pull out your member ID card and take a look. Your network is printed at the top right. Or you can sign in and find it on your Member dashboard.
How do I know if a provider is in my network?
- Use Find a doctor.
Contact us and ask if a doctor you want to see is in your network.
If a provider accepts my insurance, it's in network—or is it?
A provider may take your insurance but be out-of-network. Instead of asking your doctor, "Do you take my insurance?" make sure that they are part of your network.
The smart bet is to know before you go. Find out if the doctor or clinic you want to visit is in your network before you make an appointment or walk through the door.
Tip: If your doctor or clinic refers you to another provider for specialty care, check first to make sure that provider is part of your network.
Note: Make sure all your care is provided by in-network providers. If you receive care from an out-of-network provider, even if you are in an in-network facility and/or other providers treating you are in-network, you may have additional costs. Except as prohibited by law, these additional costs may include higher cost-sharing (such as any applicable out-of-network deductibles, coinsurance, copays, or out-of-pocket maximums), as well as responsibility for balance billing (that is, for the difference between the out-of-network provider's charge and our allowed amount). Also, the additional costs may not count toward any in-network out-of-pocket maximum in your plan. Review your policy or benefit booklet for details about coverage of out-of-network care.