We often talk with patients about the parts of their care that happen behind the scenes—the work that continues outside your appointment time. This type of work is called “indirect care”—everything your care team does for you that you don’t necessarily see: managing records, navigating insurance, coordinating with other providers, communicating results, and keeping your care moving smoothly between visits.

From handling prior authorizations to making sure your lab results get where they need to go, indirect care is a big part of what helps you get the best outcomes. Here are a few important things to know:

🧩 Understanding Insurance
Insurance is a complex machine that often benefits from patients not knowing the details of their coverage. Don’t give up when things get confusing—ask questions!

Before you see a provider, get labs or imaging, or pick up a prescription you expect to be covered, ask your insurance provider:

• Is this provider, testing location, or pharmacy in-network with my insurance?

• Is the ordered scan or lab covered? (You’ll need a five-digit code called a CPT code to check.)

• What medical criteria must be met for this service to be covered?

For example, if your provider recommends a medication that isn’t on your plan’s list, they may need to submit proof that it’s medically necessary. This process is called a Prior Authorization.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan (like Atrio, Regence BCBS, or Aetna), keep in mind that you no longer have traditional Medicare Parts A and B—you’re covered by a private insurance company that can deny services it deems “not medically necessary.”

Your insurance company should have an online portal with your benefits booklet and tools to help you understand your plan.

Pro tip: Keep a running log (Google Doc or notes app) of every conversation with your insurance company or provider’s office. Include the date, time, person’s name, and what was said. If you’re ever told something is covered and later it isn’t, this record can make all the difference in getting it resolved.

Sharing Information Between Providers
Providers and offices do not automatically share information unless you specifically request it and sign a release of information.

If you’ve had blood work, imaging, or a consultation at one clinic and want another provider to see those results, the best way is to request a records transfer. This ensures your care team has the full picture.

Supplements and Medications
It’s the patient’s responsibility to keep an up-to-date list of all medications and supplements.

Sometimes, patients don’t pick up prescribed medications—or forget to mention ones they’ve taken for years. Both can impact your care and safety. Supplements can also interact with medications (and with each other), so keep your list current and share it with every provider.

You Are the Expert on You
At the end of the day, you are the expert in your own health. Being proactive and informed is the key to getting the best care possible.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to our office staff if you have any questions—we’re here to help guide you through it all.