Our consumer advocates in recent weeks have heard from a handful of consumers that medical providers have refused to see them because they purchased health insurance through Washington Healthplanfinder, our state�s health benefit exchange. The consumers reported a couple of scenarios:
- They scheduled an appointment with a medical provider. The provider�s office later canceled the appointment because they say they are not accepting insurance that was purchased through the Exchange.
- Consumers contact providers listed as being in their network to find out if new patients are being accepted, and are told yes. The provider�s office later calls the consumer and tells the consumer they aren�t accepting plans purchased through the Exchange. In most cases, the insurance plans are confirming the providers are in the plan�s network.
We�ve heard of this happening with several plans and in several areas of the state. If you experienced one of these scenarios or something similar, please contact our consumer advocates at 1-800-562-6900 or file a complaint online. We regulate insurance companies and we want to make sure consumers receive the services they are entitled to in their insurance policies.