Is global billing only for maternity care?

I have health insurance through my employer via Anthem BCBS Colorado. My plans always restart 7/1. I had surgery 6/27, which was covered on my plan at that time. My insurance plans switched from one HMO to a different HMO on 7/1 (all through Anthem).

I did not know that my surgeon was not covered in the new plan that started 7/1. I have two follow up appointments with him on 7/10 (to get stitches out and X-rays, etc), and another 8/2. On my plan documents under network it just says "HMO" and my insurance cards from the old and new plan simply reference HMO Colorado. I called Anthem and they said they wouldn't even be able to confirm that my doc wasn't on my new plan before it started. I would have had to call some group I've never heard of and is not listed on any of our open enrollment documents.

ANYWAY..

My doctor's office said the follow up appointments should be ok because they are covered under "global billing". I've tried to look this up and it seems to only apply to maternity care. When I was on the phone with Anthem they also said it was for maternity care. Could someone explain how global billing would work in this situation? I don't understand what the doctors office is saying.

Of note, I did apply for continuity of care through Anthem. The Anthem person on the phone said my situation would fall under that. However, once I saw the form I have to fill out, I am not so sure.

submitted by /u/squatsandthoughts
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