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You%u2019re required to have a PCP to manage your care. There may come a time when you need to see a specialist for a specific medical condition. Your PCP refers you to a specialist. Don%u2019t worry. The process is simpler than you think!The way PCPs handle referrals varies. By asking specific questions, you can learn their process for referrals and decide if it%u2019s a good fit for you. Questions to ask your PCP about referrals%u2022 Can I ask for a specialist I found or does your office need to recommend a specialist?%u2022 Do I need to visit with you before you give a referral? If so, can it be done virtually, or does it have to be in-person?%u2022 Can I request a referral over the phone?%u2022 Do you have an online patient portal? If so, can I use it to request a referral?%u2022 Can you refer me to more than one specialist at a time?%u2022 How many days do I typically need to wait between a request and a referral?%u2022 Do you require a follow-up appointment after I see a specialist? %u2022 How long does my referral last?You may not need a referral for certain medical care outside the care provided by your PCP. Here%u2019s what you should know about referrals:%u2022 You don%u2019t need a referral for emergency care, annual well-woman visits or in-network mental health specialists. %u2022 You don%u2019t have to ask your PCP for a referral every time you visit a specialist. The specialist decides how many visits you have in the referral period.%u2022 A specialist can%u2019t recommend you to another specialist; only your PCP can.%u2022 Changing your PCP during a treatment period with a specialist may change your existing authorization. If you have questions about the referral process, call a PHG at 1-866-355-5999 or chat through the BCBSTX App, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Getting a Referral is Easy14 www.bcbstx.com/trsactivecare