Q. What if my insurance plan requires a referral and/or a prior authorization?

A. If your insurance company requires a referral and/or prior authorization, contact your primary care physician prior to seeing a specialist.

If your insurance company requires a referral and you do not have one, you will be responsible for full payment of your bill at the time of service, or you may not be seen for your scheduled appointment. If your specialist requires more visits or tests than your insurer approves or if the referral has expired, you must contact your primary care physician for another referral and/or prior authorization.

Q. What should I bring when I come for services or if my insurance changes?

A. Please have your current insurance card with you at all times, as well as a photo ID, such as a driver’s license, military ID, or government-issued ID. You are responsible to notify us of your insurance and any changes to your insurance coverage.

Q. What are my financial responsibilities as a patient?

A. As a patient, understanding and knowing your insurance plan benefits is important. Knowing your responsibility for any deductibles, co-insurance, or co-payment amounts prior to any visit. Not all services are covered in all insurances. If your insurance plan does not cover a service or procedure, you may be liable for full payment of the bill.

To find out what your insurance plan covers and what your financial obligation may be, call the Customer Service or Member Services Department of your insurance company.

It is important to understand your insurance plan’s current benefit and coverage rules. Policies and coverage determinations may vary from year to year. You should also check that your insurance company lists both your physician and hospital as participating providers. It is possible that only the physician or the hospital participates with your insurance plan. If you have services provided by an out-of-network provider, you may be at risk for a greater out-of-pocket financial responsibility.