When a doctor accepts your insurance does that mean they are in your network?

Asked by: Nicole West  |  Last update: January 19, 2026
Score: 4.2/5 (27 votes)

Knowing for certain which doctors are part of your network isn't always simple. Just because a provider accepts your insurance or is part of some Aetna networks doesn't mean that he or she is in-network for your specific plan. There are many ways insurance companies are able to offer plans at a variety of price points.

Does accepting insurance mean in-network?

Often, out-of-network providers may use the phrase “insurance accepted.” This means that they will accept your copay or coinsurance for services rendered and file your insurance claim on your behalf. It does not mean that they are in-network with your insurer.

How do you tell if a doctor is in your network?

How Do I Know if My Doctor Is In-Network? Every carrier has a different network of contracted providers, so a doctor that is in-network for one carrier might not be for another. The best way to determine if a doctor is in-network is to call the number on the back of your health insurance ID card.

How to find out if a practice is in-network?

Insurance companies may have different networks for different plans, so make sure you search the provider network of each specific plan you compare. You can also call the insurance company's customer service phone number to find out if your providers are in the plan's network.

What determines in-network vs out-of-network?

In-network providers have agreed to accept the insurance company's payment (plus the patient's pre-determined cost-sharing amount) as payment in full, but out-of-network providers have not signed any sort of agreement with the insurer.

What Does Out Of Network Mean When It Comes To Insurance?

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How do you know if you are out of network?

Check your health plan's provider directory.

Go to your health insurance company's website. Look for their list of providers, called a "provider directory." Search for your provider in the directory. They're in-network if you see them on the list.

What is the difference between a PPO and a HMO?

HMO plans typically have lower monthly premiums. You can also expect to pay less out of pocket. PPOs tend to have higher monthly premiums in exchange for the flexibility to use providers both in and out of network without a referral. Out-of-pocket medical costs can also run higher with a PPO plan.

How do doctors get paid by insurance companies?

' Under fee-for-service (FFS) reimbursement, the payer of the health care service pays, within reason (and certain guidelines, under Medicare and Medicaid) whatever the physician, hospital or other health care provider charges, without prearrangement of fees, once the provider of care submits an insurance claim.

Which of the following would not be considered in or out of network by health insurance plans?

Hospitals and doctors are generally included in these classifications, whereas health food stores typically are not recognized as providers by insurance plans. Therefore, health food stores would not be considered in or out of network.

How do I check out of network?

Call your insurance company to verify your benefits

The best way to be sure of your benefits is to clarify information with your insurance company member services line. You can find this phone number on the back of your insurance card or through your online insurance platform.

Why would a doctor not be in network?

Why Is Your Healthcare Provider Not in Your Insurer's Network? Your healthcare provider may not consider your insurer's negotiated rates to be adequate—this is a common reason for insurers to not join particular networks.

How do I find a doctor that accepts my insurance?

See your health plan's provider directory. You can get this by contacting your plan, visiting the plan's website, or using a link that you'll find on the plan description in your Marketplace account. Call your insurer to ask about specific providers. This number is on your insurance card and the insurer's website.

How do you ask if a doctor is in network?

There are several ways to check whether your doctor is in network:
  1. Go to your insurance company's website to get an updated network list. If you're a HealthPartners member, the easiest way to find an in-network provider is through your online account. ...
  2. Call your insurance company. ...
  3. Ask your care provider.

Can insurance deny out of network coverage?

Many health insurance companies will flat out refuse coverage for medical treatment provided by physicians outside of their established network. If your insurance claim was denied on the grounds that your care provider was outside the network, you might have grounds for appeal.

Why is my doctor suddenly out of network?

How does this happen? When an insurer and a doctor/hospital are unable to reach an agreement on a contract, the contract ends. This means that potentially thousands of employees/members may have to find new doctors, or suddenly pay out-of-network rates.

How do insurance companies determine who is in network?

This is essentially a process that the insurance company takes to review a provider or organization for inclusion into the network. The company will verify the provider's license, background, education, and see if the provider has any prior licensing, restrictions, or sanctions by multiple entities.

Why do doctors prefer PPO?

HMO plans might involve more bureaucracy and can limit doctors' ability to practice medicine as they see fit due to stricter guidelines on treatment protocols. So just as with patients, providers who prefer a greater degree of flexibility tend to prefer PPO plans.

Is it worth getting out-of-network coverage?

Getting a health insurance plan with out-of-network coverage can help you avoid some surprise medical bills. This type of coverage is worth it for people who want to maximize their health care choices or who have specialized medical needs.

Why do doctors bill more than insurance will pay?

It is entirely due to the rates negotiated and contracted by your specific insurance company. The provider MUST bill for the highest contracted dollar ($) amount to receive full reimbursement.

How does insurance work when I go to the doctor?

In general, you will give your insurance information to your doctor or hospital when you go for care. The doctor or hospital will bill your insurance company for the services you get. What do I use an insurance card for? Your insurance card proves that you have health insurance.

How much does a doctor make per patient?

On average, a routine visit to a primary care physician can range from $100 to $300 without insurance coverage.

How long after a doctor visit can they bill you?

Yes, providers cannot bill patients indefinitely. Time limits vary by state but are typically 1-3 years in most cases. Applicable time limits usually include: Timely filing limits – How long providers can submit claims to insurers (6 months – 1 year)

Is Blue Cross Blue Shield a PPO?

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

However, BCBS still pays more to in-network providers than out-of-network providers. People who are part of a PPO do not need a physician's referral to consult with a specialist. PPOs also usually offer drug coverage. Learn about Medicare referrals.

What are the two most common health insurance plans?

Before choosing a health insurance policy for yourself, your family, or your employees, you must know what types are available. Some popular health insurance policy options are: Preferred provider organization (PPO) plans. Health maintenance organization (HMO) plans.

What is a disadvantage of a PPO plan?

In general, PPO plans tend to be more expensive than an HMO plan. Your monthly premium will be higher and you will have to meet your deductible before your health insurer starts paying. You will also have to pay more out-of-pocket if you visit a provider who is not part of your PPO network.