Save Money – Use Network Laboratories

JOURNAL: ISSUE 1 - 2013

Talk to your doctor about your network laboratory services.

For certain health conditions, your doctor may decide that you need laboratory services. This is the right time to talk with your doctor about using a laboratory that is in your Plan's network. If your doctor refers you to a laboratory that is not included in the network directory, call your plans customer service number to confirm whether the laboratory is in the plan network. If it is determined that the laboratory is non-network, you may ask your doctor to refer you to a network laboratory.

How does this affect you?

Using a non-network laboratory could cost you more money. The copayments and coinsurance may be higher with a non-network laboratory. It's possible that the non-network laboratory could bill you the difference between what they charged and what is paid by your medical plan (this is called "balance billing"). Network providers will not balance bill you, but will only charge you your copayment, coinsurance or deductible. You get the best coverage from your benefit plan and help to manage health insurance costs when you choose network providers.

If you are enrolled in IHF, contact UnitedHealthcare.

If you have any questions or need assistance locating the closest network laboratory, please call a UnitedHealthcare Customer Care Professional at 877-842-3210 or log on to www.myuhc.com.