Sometimes no, sometimes yes. A referral is when your Primary Care Physician (PCP) tells you to see a specialist. This process helps your PCP know what is going on with you. There is no paperwork for you to fill out.
An authorization is when your PCP must ask McLaren Health Plan (MHP) for approval for services you need. Some of the time you need a written authorization before you get services. In some cases, you don’t. Your PCP knows when an authorization is needed and when it isn't. You do not need written authorization from your PCP to visit or get services from an in-network specialist.*
You can get a second opinion from an in-network provider. Call us for help if you want a second opinion from an out-of-network provider. Call Customer Service at (888) 327-0671, TTY 711, if you have questions about a health care service that may need a referral or authorization. Any health care that you get must be medically necessary. You should talk to your PCP before seeing any specialist even if you don't need a referral.
*The following in-network service needs an authorization:
Injectable medications given in the office of an in-network specialist