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Employees should use network physicians to save money

Blue Cross of Idaho
There’s plenty of lingo surrounding health insurance, benefits and coverage. One of the many terms you’ve probably come across is “network.”

A network is a group of medical service providers, which means physicians and facilities. Health insurance companies negotiate contracts with these physicians and medical facilities for discounted fees.

When you visit a provider who's in our network, you usually pay a lower co-payment, lower deductible and lower co-insurance. Physicians who aren't “in-network” are “out-of-network” – also known as non-contracting providers. They likely will cost you more to see. The exact price will depend on your plan, but it's wise to check our provider directory before you make an appointment to ensure your provider is in-network so you pay as little as possible.

Published 7-22-2011