HHS HealthBeat (May 17, 2010)

Need a specialist?

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

A medical specialist has advanced and specific training in a particular part of the body or disease. Sometimes patients need that expertise, but getting it isn't always easy. Some people have problems finding a specialist who takes their insurance. Others face long wait times before the doctor they want is available.

The director of HHS’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Dr. Carolyn Clancy, says understanding your coverage and options can help you get the best value from your plan:

``If you have health insurance, you need to know how your plan works. For example, do you need a referral to be seen by a specialist? What are your out-of-pocket costs for a specialty appointment versus a primary care visit, and does it matter if the specialist is in network or out of network?’’ (15 seconds)

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: November 21, 2011