Question:
Do you need a refferal from your primary doctor to see a surgeon?

I have found a surgeon but I have Western Health Advantage/Medi-Cal and was wondering do I need a refferal from my primary doctor to see the surgeon? Please any help greatly appreciated.    — Yolanda W. (posted on June 13, 2003)

June 13, 2003
It all depends on your insurance. Is it an hmo or ppo. If it is a hmo, then yes you need a referal. I would call your insurance and ask them. Have you needed a referal in the past to see a specialist?
   — Robin T.

June 13, 2003
If I'm right, Medi-Cal is a welfare medical program, and I am sure if you are on one of their programs, you will need a referral. Even if you don't, your surgeon would certainly appreciate having a PCP referral. Sometimes skipping the PCP can just backfire on you, so I'd definitely try to go that route first.
   — bethybb

June 13, 2003
Yes, your PCP will have to refer you to someone in network that will also accept Western Health Advantage. Sounds as if you signed over your Medi-cal to them, so they are the "gate keepers" and have the last say-so. No way to go around that.
   — Robin J.