It is a common problem, but nonetheless an incredibly stressful one: the doctor with whom you have established a good relationship over many years is no longer included in your health insurance network. Whether this is because the doctor has retired, has moved, or is dissatisfied with your network and has chosen to switch, your question is the same: What can I do?
The first thing to do is to check whether you have continuity of care protection. This coverage entitles you to continue receiving the same services from your doctor at the same price, with the same copays and fees. If you are a senior and you have the Medicare Advantage plan, you also have the right to switch networks, given that the network change is “considered significant based on the [effect] or potential to affect current plan enrollees” (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services).
If these options are unavailable to you, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor about any alternate payment plans he/she might provide. Or, you can ask for referrals to another doctor in your area.
For expertise in Medicaid planning, Medicare, and elder law, please feel free to reach out to the attorneys at Bach, Jacobs & Byrne, P.A. at (941) 906-1231.
