Scott & White HMO vs Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO (Austin: appointed, health insurance)

[schoenfraun]

Just wondering if I could hear anything from folks who participate in the Scott & White HMO, which is available in 23 counties in Texas.

My employer benefits allow me to choose between this HMO and Blue Cross/Blue Shield PPO. I went with the latter last year because I assumed that the HMO would be a problem if I traveled, in an emergency.

I have been disappointed in the Blue Cross service, and they are raising their copay prices, etc. But I have never heard of Scott & White before moving here, and I don't know what to think....

So, anyone out there use physicians and hospitals within the Scott & White HMO, with stories of good or bad?

It will soon be time to enroll in health coverage for the year, and we've recently relocated to Scott & White country. Wondering if we should switch. Their prices, in many cases, are better: outpatient surgery, for example, is a flat $100, whereas BC/BS charges $100 PLUS 20% of the total bill.

Unless I misunderstand.....

[schoenfraun]

come on, people! does nobody use Scott and White? I know you're out there!

good or bad?

[HappyTexan]

I use a PPO and would not use an HMO. With a PPO you can still use out of network doctors/hospitals.

[jCircadian]

I was about to post a similar question. Maybe bumping this will get responses.

Anyone have any experience with Scott & White Health Plans and/or care?

[neddy]

I have heard good and bad stories about them...yes the price is good but any extras that a regular insurance might pay from what i hear they don't even after the appeal process ie extra OT or Pt

[achtungpv]

I've never used S&W but I've always been under the impression that with their insurance you can only use S&W hospitals or clinics...with the closest being in Temple it's not exactly convenient. I don't know that for fact though.

/Edit: i guess there's one in RR now.

[neddy]

All my friends that need to use a specialist of some type usually have to drive to Temple..the RR location is good to have they said be its sort of just getting to it feet so they say..

[Buy Local]

Does anyone know how Scott and White Health insurance in Austin is for maternity?

[dick1973]

I was told by my Doc that HMO rip off patients. PPO rip off the Docs. So I guess you should pick...?

[TDK123]

I have Scott and White. I do not like it at all. The major issues is that Scott and White in Temple is like herding cattle. It seems that the patient has no input in their care and the Doctors are quick and gone. You do not have time to absorb anything..the next thing you know they have made appt. for procedure with the time pre-set..where does one get second opinion? From another S&W doctor...yeah right...You can choose a doctor but to change you must go thru admin. office. first...and explain why...They never seem to offer rehab just surgery I have tried to change ins. companies but due to S&W very questionable diagnosis my rates will now be 55% higher due to pre-existing..these are things that could easily been false readings ...I feel trapped and refuse to have these invasive procedures if they are not necessary...Biggest mistake I ever made to choose S&W. My surgery will still cost me of pocket $2,000.00. DON"T DO IT....Now I know why people hate HMO's