Whats the difference between “In-Network” and “Out-of-Network” services?
Most Insurance Companies use a Network of doctors, hospitals, labs, etc. who have agreed to work for a negotiated (less than the going) rate. This Network of providers is typically presented in a book for you to choose from. Out-of-Network refers to providers who have not contracted with the Insurance Company or Plan you have. With a Plan that uses a Network, it does not mean that you MUST go to their doctors exclusively. What it means is that if you go out of the Network, you pay more. There is a limit to how much you would be responsible for, per year, for In-Network and Out-of-Network; usually Out-of-Network is more.(see Stop Loss).
