What’s the difference between in-network and out-of-network benefits?

In network or out of network? 

The answer to that question could affect how much you pay for your health care services.

What's a network? A network is formed when health insurance companies arrange contracts with a group of health care professionals or doctors to negotiate the lowest health care costs for you and the insurance company, too.

If the doctor, hospital or health care facility you visit is part of your insurance company’s network, you'll get your health care at lower prices. But if you go out of your network for health care, it can become a lot more expensive. You may have to pay a larger percentage of the cost or be responsible for the total cost, depending on your particular plan.

To get the most out of your health insurance plan, it’s best to make sure your doctor or hospital is in your network. When you choose one of our plans, you can worry less because Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has the largest network of doctors and hospitals in the state.