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HR Home >> Benefits >> Health & Dental >> Medical Care >> Issues to Consider

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Issues to Consider in Making Your Medical Plan Decisions

You are encouraged to read the information regarding the medical plans carefully prior to enrolling to be sure you are choosing the best coverage for you and your family.

When comparing Duke's medical plans, it is important to compare the cost of out-of-pocket expenses as well as premiums and pharmacy benefits. Here are some questions to ask yourself in choosing a health plan that matches the needs of you and your family. For specific coverage information, please refer to the Medical Plans Comparison Chart.
 

 

Duke Select (HMO)

Duke Basic (HMO)

Duke Options
(Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO)

Blue Care (Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO)

In-Network

Out-of- Network

Can I select any doctor I wish? No No No Yes No
Must I choose from doctors in a network? Yes Yes Yes No Yes
Am I permitted to use out-of-network providers? No, emergency care only No, emergency care only No, emergency care only Yes No, emergency care only
Must I select a Primary Care Physician (PCP)? No, but you are encouraged to select a PCP No, but you are encouraged to select a PCP No, but you are encouraged to select a PCP No, but you are encouraged to select a PCP No, but you are encouraged to select a PCP
Can I see a specialist without a referral? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Will my dependent children who live in a different location be covered? No, emergency care only No, emergency care only Yes, nationwide listing of doctors Yes Yes, if within NC - otherwise, emergency care only
Since I travel a lot, can I see doctors in other locations around the world? No, emergency care only No, emergency care only Yes, worldwide listing of doctors Yes No, emergency care only
Do I have coverage for out-of-area/out-of-network providers so I can see providers where I work and where I live? No No Yes Yes No, but a large statewide network of doctors is available
Must I meet an annual deductible? No Yes, for some services Yes, for some services Yes No
Do I have lifetime maximums? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Do I have annual co-insurance maximums? No Yes Yes Yes No
Am I responsible for filing claims? No No No Yes No
What if I work or live outside of the U.S.A.? Emergency care only Emergency care only Worldwide list of doctors Yes Emergency care only