In-Network/Out-of-Network

Managed care plans have agreements with certain doctors, hospitals, and health care providers (in-network) to provide a range of services to plan members at reduced cost. Generally, you have less paperwork and lower out-of-pocket costs if you stay in-network. However, you give up some flexibility. If you decide to go out-of-network—i.e., use a health care provider that is not part of the managed care plan—you will generally pay more for your health care services because you are required to pay the difference between in-network and out-of-network costs. 

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