Health plans contract with groups of doctors to provide health care. These groups of doctors are called medical groups. Medical groups can range from small practices with several doctors to very large organizations with hundreds of doctors. While a small number of health plans – fewer than twenty – insure most people in California, there are hundreds of medical groups in the state. The difference between a medical group and a health plan sometimes isn’t clear. The medical group’s job is to care for patients – this work is done by the doctors, nurses, therapists and other professionals in the medical group. The health plan is responsible for seeing that its members get care easily by contracting with enough medical groups and their doctors in a local area so it is convenient for members to get care nearby. (CA.GOV)

Heritage accepts most health plans. Contact our member services to see if we are contracted with your health plan at 1(800) 655-9999 or visit our health insurance plans page.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans: Comprehensive coordinated care. A health maintenance organization (HMO) contracts with health care professionals and facilities to create a “provider network.” If you choose HMO insurance, you’ll typically pay a small co-payment if you visit a physician or hospital within the plan network. HMO insurance often features lower premiums and co-pays than other plans. Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans: Self coordinated care. A preferred provider organization (PPO) also enters into contractual agreements with health care providers and creates a “provider network.” But unlike HMOs, PPO health insurance will cover some – but not all – of the cost of care administered by out-of-network providers.

Navigating through the healthcare system can be very difficult for even the most informed individuals. Coordinated care is a way that a medical group assists you in finding the right care by the right doctor.

If you have HMO health insurance:

1. Visit hvvmg.com and choose a Heritage physician or call member services for their assistance.
2. Contact your insurance plan.
3. Request a primary care physician change.
4. Your insurance provider will send you an effective date.

Call membership services

and they will assist you.

Live chat: 9am to 5pm pacific time

Signup: Online now

Phone: 800-655-9999

Email: members@hvvmg.com