When reviewing your health insurance plan, you may notice information for both in-network and out-of-network offices. But what does that mean? Let’s unpack the difference between in-network vs. out-of-network providers and what it means for your health care.
If you’re unsure whether or not AdventHealth Primary Care+ accepts your health insurance, here is a list of all insurances currently accepted at all our locations.
Definition of In-Network vs. Out-of-Network
Understanding the difference between in-network vs. out-of-network doctors can help you make informed decisions about your care and avoid unexpected costs. In-network providers are covered by your health insurance provider, while those out-of-network are not. Let’s take a deeper look at why some offices are in-network vs. out-of-network.
What Does In-Network Mean?
An in-network doctor has contracted with your health insurance, which sets the costs associated with all the medical services they provide.
Because the health insurance company and your primary care provider have agreed upon certain rates, you will normally pay less when using in-network health care. This can ultimately help you lower your medical costs. And because the rates are contracted, your doctor cannot charge you more than the pre-negotiated rate.
What Does Out-of-Network Mean?
An out-of-network doctor may still accept your health insurance; however, they do not have a contract with them, which means there are no agreed-upon prices for medical services. For this reason, visiting an out-of-network health professional can sometimes be more expensive.
Sometimes you may need to visit a certain specialist that is out-of-network, which might require approval from your health insurance. If you ever experience a health emergency, the law says insurance companies cannot charge you more if the hospital is out-of-network.
How to Check if a Doctor Is In-Network or Out-of-Network
Before scheduling an appointment with a doctor, it’s important to determine whether they’re in your health insurance network. Learn how to find a primary care doctor who accepts your health insurance.
To check if your doctor is an in-network or out-of-network provider, you can:
- Call your health insurance using the phone number on the back of your insurance card or access the provider’s online directory on your insurance company’s website; or
- Contact your doctor’s office to ask if they accept your health insurance.
AdventHealth Primary Care+ accepts a wide variety of health insurance plans. Contact your local AdventHealth Primary Care+ office to see if they’re an in-network provider for your insurance.
