Seeing a specialist
Specialists
Your PCP can treat most health problems. However, there may be times when you need to see a specialist. A specialist is a doctor who practices in a certain area of medicine. Your PCP will give you information about seeing a First Choice specialist.
Specialists can include:
- Heart doctors (Cardiologists)
- Skin doctors (Dermatologists)
- Doctors for females (Gynecologists)
- Doctors for blood problems (Hematologists)
- Foot doctors (Podiatrists)
- Eye doctors (Ophthalmologists)
- Surgeons
You are not required to have a referral to see a First Choice participating specialist. However, we encourage that you always check with your PCP before going to a specialist. Call Member Services at 1-888-276-2020 for a list of First Choice specialists.
Out-of-network specialists
Visits to specialists who are not in the First Choice network need prior authorization (approval) from First Choice through your PCP. Call Member Services at 1-888-276-2020 if you have questions.
Second opinion
If you want to know what another doctor says about your health problem, you can get a second opinion at no cost to you. Call Member Services or ask your PCP for the name of another First Choice provider. Then, call the second doctor to make an appointment. Make sure you have a referral from your PCP or First Choice before calling the second doctor.