Required Services by Washington Health Insurance Companies

Complementary and alternative providers

Washington state law requires state-regulated insurers to cover services provided by all of the state's licensed categories of health care providers including, but not limited to:

• chiropractors
• medical doctors
• acupuncturists
• naturopaths
• physician assistants
• registered nurses
• podiatrists
• nurse midwives
• massage therapists

Most health care plans restrict enrollees to providers in their own network, and may require you to visit your primary care provider for a referral.

Insurance companies are required to provide adequate networks that contain every category of provider so you have the full range of options the law requires. Also, your plan must cover your condition, and its treatment must fall within a provider's practice.

This law applies to all state-regulated plans. It does not apply to self-funded employer plans or union trusts, which are exempt from state regulation under federal law. If you're not sure what type of plan you have, call our Insurance Consumer Hotline at 1-800-562-6900.

"Free Look"

When you receive your new policy, read it carefully.

Every individual health care insurance policy sold in the state of Washington has a 10-day "Free Look" period.

If you are not satisfied for any reason, you may return the policy within 10 days after you receive it to the company or agent. They will void the policy and provide you with a full refund of your premium.

Keep your previous coverage until you have reviewed your new policy to ensure continuous coverage.

Information on the "Free Look" period is printed or attached to the face sheet of your policy.