Here are some ways to keep getting in-network care and protect against higher costs.
, an independent physician affiliated with Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas, has been swamped by calls from patients worried about losing network coverage. They want to be seen immediately, and they’re afraid of running out of medicine and missing annual physicals.
She urged patients to contact their doctor’s offices and explain their concerns. Doctors can squeeze in appointments and call in prescriptions if necessary. And they won’t let patients run out of diabetes medicine or anti-depressants, she said. “In this situation, providers are on high alert for anyone who would be deeply harmed by disrupting their care,” Gordon said.The contract fight puts all the leading players in a bad light: UT Southwestern, Texas Health and Blue Cross Blue Shield. They already have reason to reach an agreement and end the potential disruptions to their customers’ lives.
Blue Cross members can always choose another in-network provider, and the insurer said it’s recently reached new contracts with all the major health systems in North Texas. On its website, Blue Cross hasFor those who plan to continue with their doctors or course of treatment, Gordon suggested they be proactive about requesting an exception. It may be difficult to get the OK, but making the request and documenting your efforts could be helpful in the future.