VANESSA: Hi. I'm Vanessa and I'm meeting with the Blue Cross and Blue Shield customer advocate to find out: Do I need a referral to see a specialist? I hurt my knee playing volleyball and my doctor says I need to see a specialist. Do I need a referral?

BCBS ADVOCATE: I'm sorry to hear that, Vanessa. Do you have an HMO or PPO plan?

VANESSA: An HMO.

BCBS ADVOCATE:  In that case, yes. After you've seen the primary care doctor he or she will need to provide you with the referral to a new specialist.

VANESSA: So is that complicated?

BCBS ADVOCATE: It's really not. Your doctor will give you the name of a specialist in your health plan's network and complete the referral then all you need to do is call and set up an appointment with the specialist.

VANESSA: I may be switching to a PPO plan soon. Will I need a referral with that plan?

BCBS ADVOCATE: With a PPO plan, you don't need a referral. The main thing to remember is that choosing a doctor in your network will normally cost you less even with the PPO.

VANESSA: That's so good to know. Thanks so much for all your help.

BCBS ADVOCATE: You're welcome.

SPEAKER: For more information call the number on your member ID card or visit our website at BCBSTX.com.