General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: This message was self-deleted by its author [View all]MoonchildCA
(1,301 posts)There is limited information on our state site, as well. You can only get the most basic information on what is covered. You can't call--they are overwhelmed and no one answers. My friend signed up for Anthem Blue Cross because she had them before and was familiar with them. She found out, only after she signed up (because you have to be a member to have access), none of her doctors are in her network--doctors who previously took Blue Cross. in fact, the nearest oncologist is 20 miles away, and we do not live in a small town. we have two hospitals here, and neither is in her Network.
She and I both already had "Obamacare." We went from the California Pre-existing Insurance Plan (the absolute best thing ever!), to the Federal pre-existing Insurance Plan (not as great, but adequate), and have now had to transition into the exchange. She has been in pain management for years, and it took her over a month to finally get those meds approved. Her pain management doctor was the only one in her network. He accepted the copay, but now she is being billed for the entire amount--over $200. In-network doctors should only cost the copay. There is no one to call; nobody answers.
She was not sent a booklet on coverage (like our former insurances did). Basically, you're just left out in the cold to navigate it yourself. You really don't know if something is covered until you get a bill.
My husband and I signed up for Blue Shield. We haven't attempted to use it yet, but I'm really stressed after what my friend has been going through.
And full disclosure: I am only alive because of Obamacare. I needed major surgery in 2012; I signed up for CA Pre-existing Insurance Plan, and received a $300,000 dollar surgery the next month. I was prepared to LOVE the exchanges...