Pillar
Navigating the System
Referrals, second opinions, medical records, denials and appeals, and where to go for care — how to navigate the healthcare system with confidence.
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Know Your Rights: Denials, Appeals & the No Surprises Act
Your rights when a claim is denied or you get a surprise bill — how to appeal, and what the No Surprises…
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How to Get a Referral
What is a referral? A referral is when one provider (often your primary care doctor) recommends that you see a specialist. Depending…
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How to Get a Second Opinion
What is a second opinion? A second opinion is when you ask a different provider to review your situation and share their…
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How to Request Your Medical Records
Your right to your records Under a federal law called HIPAA (the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), you have the right…
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How to Choose the Right Provider
What to consider Choosing a provider is a personal decision. These factors can help you compare options: Credentials and training. Is the…
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ER vs. Urgent Care vs. Immediate Injury Care vs. Telehealth: Where to Go
Why it matters Going to the right place for your situation can mean faster care and a much lower bill. An emergency…
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How Prior Authorization Works (From the Patient’s Side)
What is prior authorization? Prior authorization (also called pre-authorization or pre-certification) is when your insurance company must approve a service, medication, or…
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After an Injury: Where to Go and How to Avoid a Surprise Bill
An injury is stressful enough without a shocking bill weeks later. Knowing where to go — and which protections you have —…
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Telehealth vs. Urgent Care vs. the ER: Where Should You Go?
The same complaint can cost $0 or $3,000 depending on where you go. Here’s how to match your situation to the right…
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