Health insurance plans, policies, and companies will either contract with medical professional to help keep costs down or they will still offer coverage but at a possibly higher amount. Out of this process have come the existence of heath care provider networks.

How you use your policy's in and out groups will determine some of the costs that you will incur for your health care. Having a full understanding of how the two different groups work is the best way to save money when it comes to your health care needs.

An in-network provider is one contracted with the health insurance company to provide services to plan members for specific pre-negotiated rates.

An out-of-network provider is one not contracted with the health insurance plan.

Typically, if you visit a physician or other provider within the network, the amount you will be responsible for paying will be less than if you go to an out-of-network provider. Though there are some exceptions, in many cases, the insurance company will either pay less or not pay anything for services you receive from out-of-network providers.