BCBS to identify FPs with obstetrics in directory

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas will now designate family physicians who practice obstetrics in their network directories and on-line Provider Finder. These physicians will receive a special “practice information” line item in their listing. TAFP will continue to negotiate for similar designations with other health insurance providers.

Currently, patients seeking obstetrical care might never know that some of the family physicians in their network practice obstetrics because only obstetricians are listed in health plan provider network lists as providing those services. Getting family physicians recognition for the services they provide has been one of TAFP’s legislative priorities this session. BCBS’ action is the first step in getting health insurance plans to acknowledge and publicize the full scope of some family medicine practices.

To be listed as a family physician who provides obstetrics, a provider must complete two steps, according to a letter from Dee Whittlesey, M.D., Vice President of the BCBS Office of Physician Advocacy:

1. Send a letter requesting that the provider has an the additional listing for obstetrics in the directory, and
2. Submit a letter or statement on hospital or hospital staff letterhead verifying obstetrical privileges at the network hospital.

Physicians can mail letters to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Core Provider Services, P.O. Box 650267, Dallas, Texas 75265-0267.