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Choosing a PCP isn’t just a good idea—it may be a requirement

April 08, 2024
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2 minutes
Choosing a PCP isn’t just a good idea—it may be a requirement

Have you switched health plans recently?

Then you may need to choose a Primary Care Provider (PCP) before your insurance company chooses one for you.

Why bother with a PCP?

The short answer is that some insurers require you to inform them of your chosen in-network PCP—or they’ll do it for you.

Having a PCP is a great way to ensure more streamlined, holistic care—but it can also affect your ability to see specialists, obtain prior authorizations for medications or procedures, or impact your out-of-pocket costs for care.

Here’s a breakdown of which insurance plans require you to designate a PCP

Exchange HMO Plans

  • Aetna CVS Exchange
  • Blue Advantage

Commercial/Employer HMO Plans

  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • United Healthcare
  • and more (check with your plan)

If you’re a Medicare Advantage Plan member, you’re not required to report your PCP, but it’s a great way to simplify care:

  • Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Blue Cross Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Humana Medicare Advantage Plans
  • United Healthcare Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Wellmed/AARP Medicare Advantage Plans

Still on the fence about why to choose a PCP?

Here are just some of the pros to having a Harbor Health PCP you love:

  • They’re the expert on your health history and goals
  • They’re the first point of contact when care needs arise
  • They can manage your care holistically—including preventive screenings, specialty needs, chronic conditions, and more
  • They help get you to the right treatment quickly and efficiently
  • They coordinate care inside and outside of Harbor Health so you don’t have to

Need help choosing a PCP? Give us a call.

If you’re a Harbor Health client who needs help choosing a PCP, just reach out at (855)481-8375. We’d love to hear from you!

Holly Murphy

Holly Murphy

Director of Corporate Marketing

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