I'm sure this is not top-of-the-mind when faced with a cancer diagnosis, treatment, survival, etc. but I did want to try to pass on what I hope to be useful tips...I will try to post tidbits that might be of use as I stumble across them.

Be sure to check your insurance coverage for rules regarding use of contracted (in network) and non-contracted (out-of-network) physicians and healthcare facilites. Most of the time there is a difference in the amount of reimbursement you receive...more/better if your provider is in network versus a lesser amount if your provider is out-of-network. This can impact the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket even after you've met your deductible and maximum out-of-pocket requirements. And this can happen regardless of whether your coverage is a group or individual policy.

While I would never advocate choosing a provider based solely on their contracted status with an insurance carrier, it may be an important consideration for some. If your provider of choice is not contracted with your insurance carrier you can ask them to consider contracting. Reimbursement is very tough and rapidly decreasing these days but some doctors will do this for their patients. Keep in mind that it will not help you retrospectively (no credits to services already provided) but it can help you moving forward if your physician does end up contracting.

If your physician or healthcare facility is contracted with your carrier and you are concerned about the charges and amount of out-of-pocket you are paying, please feel free to contact me and I will do what I can to help. There could me a plethera of explanation beyond this one.

Let me also add that some carriers are regulated at the federal level and some at the state level so there may be differences in laws, regulations, and how they are applied depending on the state and carrier.

I hope this is helpful...if not tell me to shut up and I will stop.
Amy