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!