Finding PPO Network Providers

If you have purchased visitors insurance, your plan may include participation in a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network. Two of the largest and most widely recognized networks available to international visitors are the First Health PPO Network and the United Healthcare PPO Network. 

Visiting an in-network doctor, urgent care center, or hospital is crucial. Not only does it streamline the billing process—since in-network providers typically bill the insurance company directly—but it can also reduce your out-of-pocket expenses compared to seeking out-of-network care by utilizing lower, network-negotiated rates.  

Navigating to the Right Provider Directory 

Because both First Health and United Healthcare operate massive national networks with various sub-tiers and specialized divisions, navigating directly to their public websites can sometimes be confusing. Depending on the specific visitor insurance plan you purchased, you might be required to use a specific web portal or subset of the network. 

To ensure you are searching the exact network directory associated with your specific policy, rather than guessing on a public search engine, we recommend accessing the provider search tools directly through your secure account management portal, MyAccount. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding a Provider 

Here is how you can easily locate a hospital or doctor that accepts your First Health or United Healthcare PPO plan: 

1. Access Your Account Portal: Go to your MyAccount portal and log in. 
2. Locate Your Policy: Once inside your dashboard, locate your currently active visitor insurance policy. 
3. Click on the Provider Directory: Look for the quick link labeled "Find a Provider," "PPO Network," or "Provider Directory." Clicking this link will securely direct you to the correct provider directory for your plan. 
4. Search by Location and Specialty: Once on the respective PPO network site, enter the ZIP code of your current location in the U.S. You can refine your search by selecting the type of facility (e.g., Urgent Care Clinic, Hospital) or the type of physician (e.g., General Practice, Pediatrics, Cardiology). 
5. Review Your Options: The search results will provide a list of local, in-network healthcare providers along with their contact information, addresses, and the distance from your location. 

Important Tips Before Your Visit 

1. Call Ahead to Confirm: Even after finding a provider through the official directory, it is highly recommended to call their office before your visit. Confirm that they are accepting new patients and verify that they still participate in either the "First Health PPO" or "United Healthcare PPO" network. 
2. Mention the Network, Not the Plan Name: When speaking to the clinic's receptionist, tell them the name of the PPO network printed on your ID card (First Health or United Healthcare), rather than the specific name of your travel insurance plan. Medical offices are very familiar with large PPO networks, but they may not recognize the name of an individual visitor insurance plan. 
3. Carry Your ID Card: Always have your digital or printed insurance ID card with you. It contains the network logo, billing address, and essential customer service numbers that the medical staff will need to process your direct billing. 

By utilizing your MyAccount dashboard, you can confidently and quickly locate the right medical professionals within your PPO network, ensuring you receive quality care and peace of mind during your stay in the United States.