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!