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Why you should go to an in-network provider
The benefits of in-network care and how to find it
Blue Cross of Idaho contracts with doctors, hospitals and clinics to offer our members lower rates for care. These providers agree to offer a lower rate for care in exchange for being in our network. You can go to any provider for care, but you may pay more for care at an out-of-network provider.
How in-network care saves you money
For example, let’s say Bob keeps getting ear infections and wants to see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. An ENT is considered a specialist. Bob’s plan has a $50 copay for an in-network specialist’s office visit, so he would just pay $50 for that visit.
But if Bob goes to an out-of-network doctor, he’d pay a lot more. Bob’s plan requires him to meet the deductible before it will pay for care from an out-of-network doctor. (A deductible is a set amount you pay when you get care for most covered services.) His plan’s deductible is $10,000, and hasn’t reached it for the year. That would mean Bob might have to pay hundreds of dollars out of pocket for the full cost of care from an out-of-network ENT, instead of a flat $50 for an in-network doctor.
By visiting in-network doctors, you get the most out of your benefits – the savings to you as a member can be huge.
How to find in-network care
The easiest way to search for in-network doctors is through the Blue Cross of Idaho member app. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store, create an account using your member ID number or Social Security number. Once you’ve created an account and have logged in, select Find Care to begin your search. Your results will only show in-network providers, so you know you’ll be getting the best rate.
You can also use the online search tool or call the Blue Cross of Idaho Customer Service Department for at the number on the back of your member ID card for help finding in-network care.
Keep in mind that in a true emergency – when your life is in danger – get to the nearest emergency room. Emergency care is covered under your plan at in-network rates, not matter where you go. But for all other cases, you’ll save when you go to an in-network provider for care.
Posted: June 28, 2021