Recently a Managed Health Care Executive article http://managedhealthcareexecutive.modernmedicine.com * noted: “Narrow networks have attracted some negative attention lately, with the latest being reported that these networks present challenges with regard to accessing specialty care. Physicians are reporting issues over making referrals for patients who have bought some of the lower cost ACA plans, they are also trying to determine what specialists accept the plans.”
““The biggest issue with narrow networks is balancing the size of the network with access to care…., if access to providers is impeded, the result could be delayed care and higher costs because patients are sicker when they final get care—the exact opposite of why the narrow network was created.”
“Narrow networks need to have ‘safety valves’ for assuring members access to care…”.
* to read the full MHCE article” Narrow networks perform balancing act with access to specialty care” by Tracey Walker, highlight and click on open hyperlink http://managedhealthcareexecutive.modernmedicine.com/managed-healthcare-executive/news/narrow-networks-perform-balancing-act-access-specialty-care
Doctor, Did You Wash Your Hands? ™ provides information to consumers on understanding, managing and navigating health care options.
Jonathan M. Metsch, Dr.P.H., is Clinical Professor, Preventive Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; and Adjunct Professor, Baruch College ( C.U.N.Y.), Rutgers School of Public Health, and Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration
This blog shares general information about understanding and navigating the health care system. For specific medical advice about your own problems, issues and options talk to your personal physician.