In this podcast discussion, Ben Tuinei explains the concept and purpose of umbrella or leasing networks in the insurance industry. These networks allow insurance companies with smaller or less established networks to expand their in-network provider lists by partnering with other companies. This helps in attracting more employer groups by presenting a larger network of in-network providers. Ben emphasizes the importance of keeping track of these relationships through notices from insurance companies. He advises practices to limit their involvement to one or two umbrella networks to avoid confusion and potential downgrades to the lowest fee schedules. He also predicts an increase in such relationships as more doctors opt out of direct PPO contracts.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Time stamps
- 00:01:42 – Why do umbrella networks exist?
- 00:04:06 – Is there an efficient way to keep up with umbrella network relationships?
- 00:05:20 – What are some of the most common umbrella networks that exist?
- 00:06:48 – If you are helping an existing practice that is on every PPO network and every umbrella network, what is your typical approach to help those practices clean up the confusion that is caused by having too many umbrella partnerships?
- 00:09:44 – Will these umbrella network relationships increase or decrease over time?
- 00:11:17 – What’s your take on umbrella networks? Are you in favor of them? Or are you against what they do and what they stand for?
Resources
