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Covered California claims 4 of 5 California doctors are in its networks
Covered California Executive Director Peter Lee.
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Max Whittaker/Getty Images
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Covered California claimed Wednesday that more than 80 percent of California's practicing physicians are included in plans offered through the state-run health insurance marketplace. The agency also claimed that a "substantial majority" of the state's hospitals are available.
"We believe our offerings compare favorably to commercial networks in the state in the individual and employer markets," said Covered California Executive Director Peter Lee.
Still, Lee acknowledged that "we also have contingency plans requiring health plans to expand their networks if needed."
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More than 58,000 doctors are available through Covered California plans, compared with the 63,000 to 72,000 in the state's largest commercial networks, according to the state marketplace.
It claimed to have more than 360 hospitals available, adding that nearly two-thirds serve low-income or previously uninsured populations. Every member hospital of the California Children’s Hospital Association is available on at least one Covered California plan, the agency said.
The California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development lists 365 general acute-care hospitals in California.
The Covered California website has a doctor search function, but it has worked intermittently at best. Consumers are urged to contact their doctor and/or hospital directly to confirm that they are included in a particular insurance plan.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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