Insurance and coverage.

Coverage questions

Which insurance plans do you accept?

The practice accepts all commercial insurance plans, Medicare, workers' compensation, and personal injury cases. Plans still differ on referrals, prior authorisation and what you pay, so call the office with your insurer and your specific plan name before a visit.

Why is the facility a separate question from the surgeon?

Because they bill separately. A surgeon can be in network at a facility that is not, or the reverse, and the anaesthesia group is often a third arrangement again. If surgery is being planned, confirming all of them is worth the phone calls. The office can tell you where the operation would take place so you can check.

Do you take Medicare?

Yes. Medicare Advantage plans are administered differently from traditional Medicare and have their own network and authorisation rules, so confirm which you have when you call.

What about a work injury?

Work-related injuries are handled through workers' compensation rather than your health plan, and the process differs by state. The Illinois process, including your right to choose a treating physician, is covered on the workers' compensation page.

Is a second opinion covered?

Many plans cover second opinions, and some require one before authorising elective spine surgery. It depends on your plan. Ask specifically, because the answer occasionally works in your favour in a way people do not expect.

What if I do not have insurance?

Call the office and say so. Self-pay arrangements are a conversation to have directly rather than something that can be answered usefully on a webpage.