When you shop, you probably keep an eye on costs so you can buy the things you need at a fair price. What about when you’re shopping for health care? Choosing providers and facilities in your network helps you save money.
In-Network vs. Out-of-Network
When you use in-network independent labs, imaging and surgical centers, you can get the same quality care you'd get in hospitals for a lot less. Be sure to talk with your doctor about alternatives for tests or procedures outside of the hospital.
- Independent labs – Get routine lab work and comprehensive blood panels.
- Independent imaging centers – Get high-tech imaging like X-rays, CT scans and MRIs.
- Surgical centers – Get convenient surgeries, diagnostic or preventive procedures and go home on the same day.
Once you find a provider, lab or facility, check to see if they’re in-network for your specific health plan. Simply asking if they take Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas insurance is not enough. Give them the information on your ID card — including the full name of your plan — to make sure.
Resources
Member Rewards
Earn up to $599 per year by shopping with Member Rewards, a program that rewards you for choosing a cost-effective, trusted provider for services like MRIs, CT scans, colonoscopies, and mammograms.
Provider Finder®
Use Provider Finder® to find out where you can get your in-network colonoscopy. You can also find a Primary Care Provider to talk about what is right for you.