Illinois Department of
Insurance reminds consumers of their rights when joining
an HMO
With an increase in HMO health
plan offerings in the Illinois marketplace for 2017,
consumers should be aware of their rights during
transition of care.
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[December 29, 2016]
CHICAGO
– The Illinois Department of Insurance reminds Illinois consumers about
their rights and legal protections related to HMO networks. Continuing
health care services from a provider during an ongoing course of
treatment is crucial. Illinois laws protect HMO members when their
provider leaves a network and when members join an HMO, but the member
must make a request within a certain timeframe.
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Under the Managed Care Reform and Patient Rights Act of Illinois
(215 ILCS 134/et seq) this is referred to as “Transition of Care.”
Below are a few questions and answers to better help consumers
understand their rights.
Who is eligible for Transition of Care?
Consumers who are receiving an ongoing course of treatment or have
entered their third trimester of pregnancy are eligible for
Transition of Care. Here are some examples of ongoing treatment:
cancer treatments, physical therapy, chronic illness,
hospitalizations, chemical dependency, infertility treatment, and
invasive procedures such as surgery.
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What happens if my doctor leaves my HMO network?
If you are notified that your doctor is leaving the network, but
remains in the service area, you can request a 90-day transitional
period. You must make the request within 30 days after notification
that your physician is leaving the network.
What if I join an HMO, but my previous doctor is not in the HMO
network?
If your previous doctor is not a member of your network, but is
within the service area you can request a 90-day transitional
period. You must make the request within 15 days of joining the HMO.
How long does the transitional period last?
The transitional period is approximately 90 days. If you are
pregnant, your transitional period may be extended through the
post-partum care related to your delivery.
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What role does my physician have in this transition?
You are only eligible for transition of care if your physician
agrees to continue providing care under your health plan’s
guidelines during this transitional period.
How can I request transition of care services?
Your HMO should provide details on this service in the policy,
certificate, member handbook and/or website. You can also contact
your HMO by phone through the number provided on the back of your
member card. If your provider is leaving the network, or you are
enrolling in an HMO that does not include your physician, and you
want transition of care services, you should immediately contact
your HMO and provide the following information:
- A request for transition of care services;
Name of the physician with whom you want to continue care;
- Your medical condition that requires ongoing care; and
- Reasons you want transition of care.
If you have questions about your rights under the Managed
Care Reform and Patient Rights Act, call (877) 527-9431 or visit
insurance.illinois.gov
[Illinois Department of Insurance]
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