July 2003

HMO to allow direct access to DCs

Covered members in a managed-care organization in Pennsylvania will be able to access doctors of chiropractic directly — without a referral from their primary-care physician.

American Specialty Health Networks (ASH Networks) has an agreement with Geisinger Health Plan to provide a new supplemental group rider for chiropractic benefits in central and northeastern Pennsylvania.

"This new rider offers a broad provider network and coverage without a referral — the first direct access chiropractic rider offered by an HMO in the state,” explained Michael Morucci, Geisinger Health Plan's vice president of marketing and sales.

Effective July 1, 2003, Geisinger Health Plan members with the rider can directly access chiropractic benefits from contracted providers in the ASH Networks provider network without a referral from their primary care physician. ASH Networks operates a network of more than 1,000 chiropractors in Pennsylvania. The benefit plan includes a variety of member co-payments and up to 15 annual office visits.

Begun in 1985, Geisinger Health Plan, the nation's largest rural HMO, serves nearly 240,000 members in 38 counties throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania.

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