When you go to a healthcare provider that is "out-of-network," it means they don’t accept your insurance. This usually means you'll have to pay more for the same services compared to using an "in-network" provider, who does accept your insurance.
Providers can be individuals, like your doctor or specialist, or facilities, like hospitals or urgent care centers. Even if a provider is close to you, they might not be in-network, so it's important to check before you get care. This can help you save money and avoid unexpected bills.
Different insurance plans have different rules. Some cover out-of-network care, while others only cover it in emergencies, like if you have to go to the emergency room while traveling.
A smart tip is to always check your benefits and see which providers accept your insurance before getting care!
Vice President of Customer Care Alex Levi breaks down the difference between in-network and out-of-network care.
Contact:
Aida Byrne, aida.byrne@excellus.com
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, is a nonprofit health plan with 1.5 million upstate New York members. The company's mission is to help people live healthier and more secure lives through access to high-quality, affordable health care. Its products and services include cost-saving prescription drug discounts, wellness tracking tools and access to telemedicine. With about 4,500 employees, the company is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce to foster innovation and better serve its members. It also encourages employees to engage in their communities by providing paid volunteer time off as one of many benefits. To learn more, visit ExcellusBCBS.com.
