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A provider network is a group or "network" of doctors, hospitals, and other medical professionals
who have agreed to serve the members of a given health plan. Different health plans
likely have different networks of medical providers. So, while two health plans may
offer the same benefits, the doctors and hospitals that accept that particular health plan may
be different. When choosing a health plan, you should consider the provider network you'll
have access to. Some health insurance carriers offer health plans that have the same benefits,
but have different networks of providers. Where that happens, the options with smaller
provider networks are specifically flagged for shoppers. They have a lower monthly premium,
but fewer provider choices than available under that same health insurer's biggest provider
network. If you have a specific medical provider that you would like to continue seeing, whether
it's a doctor, nurse practitioner, or a hospital, you'll want to make sure they participate
in the provider network of the health insurance plans you're considering.