To help you save money, most health plans provide access to a network of doctors, facilities and pharmacies. These doctors and facilities must meet certain credentialing requirements and agree to accept a discounted rate for covered services under the health plan in order to be part of the network. These health care providers are considered in-network
If a doctor or facility has no contract with your health plan, they're considered out-of-network and can charge you full price. It's usually much higher than the in-network discounted rate.
No matter which healthcare option you're in, it's in your best interest to use in-network providers.
UHC, BCBS and Caterpillar have negotiated significant discounts with certain providers. The choice is yours, but if you're enrolled in a PPO or CDHP option and use an out-of-network provider, you'll have to pay a much higher portion of the bill. If you're enrolled in the BCBS National EPO option and use an out-of-network provider, you'll have to pay ALL of the bill.
