Your doctor may write you a lab work prescription, but they may not tell you where to have it done. Where patients go for their lab work can actually have a huge difference in terms of cost. One lab may charge twice or more what another will for the same test and if that lab is out-of-network, it can mean a surprise bill for a patient of hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
To get the most out of your insurance plan, here are some Do’s and Don’ts to remember next time you or a family member has to visit a lab.
Do…visit your carriers’ website and look at the Clinical Lab Services page. This web page includes information on all of the labs in-network with your health insurance plan.
Do…be careful to select the right lab for your plan. Not all labs participate in every plan. That’s why checking is so important. Visit your health insurance carrier’s website or call your broker to make sure you match your plan with the right lab.
Do…ask your doctor whether any lab work they perform in the office will be done by a lab that is in-network. Sometimes a doctor will send lab work taken in the office to a lab that isn’t in network. You can avoid that happening by asking your doctor up front.
Don’t…go to a lab that is out of lab network, or you may be hit with a big, unexpected bill.
Don’t…think finding an in-network lab is difficult.
Don’t…hesitate to contact your carrier or broker if you have a question or need help.
Cosmo Insurance Agency is an independent insurance agency serving surrounding communities in New Jersey. Cosmo keeps its promise to assure an efficient and creative approach to the services we offer. Each of our clients experience a personalized and long-term relationship with us. Our New Jersey based team of health brokers guides our clients in helping them choose the most cost-effective options. By incorporating the latest in technology-based tools and laws on healthcare, employee benefits, life insurance and finance, we keep our clients up-to-date with the plans that encompass all of their needs, whether it is individual or group insurance.
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