What are patient protections?

As a part of the patient protection provision, you:

• can choose any available participating primary care provider as your
        PCP;
• can select any available participating physician who specializes in
        pediatrics (allopathic or osteopathic) to be your child's PCP;
• have direct access to participating obstetrics or gynecology
        (OB/GYN) providers.

In addition, prior authorization is not required for emergency services in a true emergency, even if provided by an out-of-network provider.

This provision is part of the health care reform law, also known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). It is effective for plan years beginning Sept. 23, 2010. It applies to all non-grandfathered fully insured and self-funded group health plans, as well as group and individual health insurance issuers.

For more information on patient protections or on health care reform, visit www.healthcare.gov or www.uhc.com/reform.

This communication is not intended as legal or tax advice. Please contact a competent legal or tax professional for personal advice on eligibility, tax treatment and restrictions. Federal and state laws and regulations are subject to change.