is there any benefit to seeing an in-network provider with a $6,000 deductible?

I recently enrolled in health first bronze leaf premiere (ny state). the premium is only $21 because the state is helping me pay with advanced premium tax credits, otherwise the premium is about $600+. however, the deductible is very high at $6,000. NYS of labor's website made it seem like this was the best option for me, however I deeply regret not contacting health first directly to get help picking a lower deductible plan with a lower premium. my boyfriend was able to get a lower deductible plan by contacting the insurance provider directly versus enrolling through the department of labor's website. I do go to the doctor fairly frequently for check ups, mainly my GI, dental cleanings, and a breast surgeon/breast specialist because im considered high risk. I get MRI's every year, which I know are expensive, especially without insurance. I was previously on medicaid so I didnt have to worry about any of this before. I dont qualify for the essential plan because my estimated gross income is about $37,700 (which isnt much considering I live in nyc but the state seems to think so).

The next enrollment period isnt until November and I do plan to try to switch to a lower deductible plan, however, Im wondering if there's any benefit to seeing in-network providers with a high deductible? according to my plan's benefits summary, the only deductible exempt providers are my PCP and a few other things, but nothing thats truly relevant for me. For example, seeing an an in-network specialist will cost a $75 copay AFTER the deductible. But because they are in-network, will it cost less than an out-of-network specialist? Or am I still paying a full fee despite having insurance thats in network?

Any help is appreciated, thanks in advance.

submitted by /u/almondmilkpls
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