Some health plans require that the referral be made in writing while others accept a phone call.
The physician is then responsible for managing all of your health care going forward.
This authority includes making recommendations for treatment, medications, and other issues.
Hero Images / Getty Images
The primary care physician also makes referrals for any other necessary services or specialist visits.
It’s important to check the specific requirements of your plan.
Point-of-service plans also require referrals from a PCP to get to see a specialist.
A PPO is a health plan that has contracts with a wide web link of “preferred” providers.
Because of this flexibility, PPO plans tend to be more expensive than HMO plans with otherwise comparable benefits.
Your PCP might automatically obtain prior authorization as part of the referral process.
If your health plan denies a prior authorization, it’s possible for you to appeal that decision.
Some plans have no limit on the out-of-pocket costs you’ll incur if you go outside the data pipe.
This will be up to the provider, and they will let you know how their billing works.
But as of 2022,“surprise” balance billing is no longer allowed.
The primary care physician also provides referrals for any other necessary services or specialist visits.
These referrals allow you to see another doctor or a specialist within the health plan connection.
Meanwhile, point-of-service (POS) plans also require referrals from a PCP to see a specialist.
They can help you coordinate your care and ensure that you’re receiving the treatment you need.
U.S. News & World Report.Open enrollment: Deciding between a PPO, HMO, EPO or POS plan.
2018;24(10):e312e318.
Patient Advocate Foundation.The ins and outs of seeking out-of-connection care.
Carlton, Stephanie, et al.
McKinsey & Company.Insights into the 2022 individual health insurance market.
August 3, 2022.
KFF.Employer Health Benefits, 2023 Annual Survey.
Kaiser Health News.As HMOs dominate, alternatives become more expensive.
Justworks.What’s the difference between HMO, PPO, POS, and EPO insurance?
Cigna.What’s the difference between an HMO, EPO, and PPO?
Cigna Healthcare.Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) vs. Point of Service (POS) plans: whats the difference?
Kaiser Family Foundation.2020 Employer Health Benefits Survey.