Find out whether local hospital is in network

How do I know whether care from my local hospital will be covered by my health insurance plan?  I got my plan from the exchange and am having a hard time figuring out what is what.

Puzzled

Dear Puzzled,

Your best bet is to ask the insurance plan directly.  You can call them; there should be a number on your ID card.  Or most insurers have their directory of providers on their website.

If you do not see your hospital on the list, it does not necessarily mean that care is not covered.  It may mean that you pay more of the bill.  Most plans cover “out of network” care, but some do not.  Again, calling the insurer’s help line will get you the whole story.

Linda Riddell

About Linda Riddell

A published author and health policy analyst with 25 years’ experience, Linda Riddell's goal is to alleviate the widespread ailment of not knowing what your health plan can do for you.