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You are not a burden. Asking for help is wisdom in motion. Patient Advocate

Nationwide directory

Find providers, clinics, pharmacies & medication help

Covers all 50 states, DC, and US territories. National resources are free for everyone; state-specific Medicaid and health-department contacts are included with membership.

Don't shop on premium alone — shop on network access

The cheapest premium often hides a narrow network or a punishing drug formulary. Here's how to ask the right questions before you enroll.

  • List your doctors and hospitals first

    Write down every clinician, hospital system, and pharmacy you actually use. Ask the counselor or broker to check each one against the plan's in-network directory — not just the plan's marketing page.

  • List your medications and ask about the formulary tier

    Same plan, same drug can be Tier 1 or Tier 4 depending on the insurer. Ask: 'Is each of my drugs on the formulary, and what tier?' A cheap premium with a Tier 4 specialty drug can cost more than a richer plan.

  • Ask for the plan's network breadth, not just the name

    Networks labeled HMO, EPO, or 'narrow/select' often exclude major hospital systems. Ask: 'Is this a broad, standard, or narrow network?' and 'Which local hospital systems are in-network?'

  • Confirm specialists and referrals

    If you see a cardiologist, oncologist, or mental-health provider, confirm they're in-network AND accepting new patients under that plan. Ask if a referral from primary care is required.

  • Use SHIP / SHIBA before you call a broker

    State counselors (SHIBA in WA, HICAP in CA, HIICAP in NY) are free and don't earn commissions. Brokers get paid by insurers — they may steer you toward plans that pay them more.

  • Get the network promise in writing

    Before enrolling, request written confirmation that your specific providers are in-network for the plan year. Networks can change — a screenshot of the directory with today's date protects you.

Educational guidance only. For a personalized review, contact your state's SHIP office (free) or a licensed patient advocate.

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