If you are a member of a managed care plan (an HMO, for example), please take time to review and understand the guidelines of your policy. Most managed care insurance plans require that your primary care provider (PCP -your doctor or nurse practitioner) refer you to specialists within their plan’s network for specialty care, testing and various types of therapy.
Referrals have a start and an end date, along with an approved number of visits. If a referral has not been received by our office at the time of service, you will be asked to sign a financial waiver as a guarantee of payment.
Be sure to speak to your PCP before obtaining medical care elsewhere. This will allow you to confirm insurance company benefits and ensure continuity of care between the specialist and your primary care provider.
When you need a referral, allow 7-10 business days for your PCP to process the necessary paperwork. As always, you should check with your insurance company to determine what your benefits are. Referrals do not guarantee payment.
