Narrow Networks Still Dominate Obamacare Exchanges
Health Care

Narrow Networks Still Dominate Obamacare Exchanges

MIKE BLAKE

Networks that offer less choice of health care providers remain the most common types of plans on Affordable Care Act exchanges, with 72 percent of the market, according to a new analysis by research firm Avalere.

The push toward more restrictive networks like those used in HMOs is one way plans seek to keep costs and premiums low, the healthcare consulting firm says, but it can involve tradeoffs for the insured.

“Provider networks are getting narrower, which means it is more important than ever that patients understand what kind of plans they are buying,” Avalere’s Chris Sloan said in a statement. “Unknowingly enrolling in a narrow network plan could lead to patients being unable to see their preferred doctor or go to their most convenient hospital.”

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