Care begins with your primary care physician
As a Blue Care Network member, you choose a primary care physician who becomes your health care partner. Each person covered under your BCN contract must select a primary care physician, but members of the same family don’t have to have the same physician. Adults may select a family or general practice, internal medicine or preventive medicine physician for their care. Parents may select a family or general practice physician or pediatrician for their children.
Choose a primary care physician as soon as you become a member because not having one can affect access to your benefits. Care you seek on your own may not be covered. That’s why if you do not select a primary care physician when you enroll, BCN may select one for you and notify you of the selection.
Build a relationship with your doctor
We encourage you to build a relationship with your doctor. Call your primary care physician first for all your health care needs — from a routine checkup to an injury or illness (high fever, unusual pain) that requires prompt attention. Discuss any concerns about your health and the medical care or service you are receiving with your doctor first.
Access to care
Your doctor has agreed to be accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If your doctor isn’t in the office, your doctor or the doctor on call can be reached through an answering service. Make sure you have your doctor’s telephone number handy at all times. Post it near your home telephone, and always carry it with you. In an emergency, always go to the nearest hospital emergency room or call 911. Tell your primary care physician about the problem within 24 hours or as soon as you can. It’s fine if another person calls on your behalf.
page modified 02/05/2009