A medical specialist focuses on a specific area of healthcare. Learn how referrals work, how to compare specialists, and what to confirm before scheduling.
HMOs often require a written referral from your PCP. PPOs and EPOs typically allow you to self-refer to in-network specialists.
Referral validity varies by insurer and is often 60-180 days or a fixed number of visits.
It depends on your plan. Self-pay is always an option.
Second opinions are reasonable for serious diagnoses, surgery decisions, or unclear treatment plans.