You got questions, we got answers

The most commonly asked questions are answered in the list below. Click the Contact Us button if you can’t find what you need. A Member Service Representative will be happy to help you. 

Member FAQ’s

Can I see any doctor?
HPSJ has a Provider Directory that lists the participating primary care physicians and hospitals you can use. Participating providers are primary care physicians, clinics, hospitals, other non-physician health care providers and facilities. To search for any participating provider, use the online search tool located on the Home page. You can get a copy of HPSJ’s provider directory by calling Customer Service 1-888-936- PLAN. You can also view the provider directory on our website at www.hpsj.com.
What if I was seeing a doctor before enrolling in HPSJ?

You may have been getting care from another doctor or hospital before you were an HPSJ Member for:

a serious chronic condition or acute condition

a terminal illness

a pregnancy

care for a child (up to 36 months of age) or

a planned surgery or procedure

If that doctor or hospital is not one of our providers, you may be able to continue to get the care you need if the doctor or hospital agrees with HPSJ to do so. For more information, or to request a copy of this policy, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (Hearing Impaired – TTY/TTD)

Can I choose my Primary Care Provider (PCP)?

Yes. Use the Provider Directory to choose a PCP for yourself. Also, choose a PCP for everyone in your family who has HPSJ. You can choose a different PCP for your family members. A PCP can be a family practitioner, general practitioner, internist, pediatrician, OB/GYN or clinic. If you choose a clinic, you may also have to choose a provider that works at that clinic. If you have recently had a baby, remember to choose a PCP for your newborn.. You can choose or change your PCP online through the member portal or by calling (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD).

You may also choose a doctor within the local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for your primary care. If you are a Native American, you can get services at any Indian Health Service Facility. You can also disenroll from HPSJ at any time and get services through the Medi-Cal fee-for-service program. You also have the right to not enroll in a Medi-Cal Managed Care plan.

For information on the availability of the FQHC and Indian Health Service Facility clinics, and how to get services at these clinics, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD)

What if I don’t choose a PCP?

If you do not choose a PCP within 30 days after you enroll, we will assign you a PCP. The PCP’s name will be on your ID card. If you do not want that PCP, call the Customer Service Department right away to choose another PCP or change your PCP online using HPSJ’s member portal.
What if I want to change my PCP?

It is important that you have a good relationship with your PCP. It is also necessary that you choose a PCP that is located in a place you can get to for appointments. If you want to change your PCP, choose another provider from our Provider Directory. If you need help finding a PCP that speaks your language or meets your needs, our Customer Service Department can assist you. You cannot see another PCP without telling us first.

Sometimes your PCP may ask that you be assigned to another PCP. This may be because you do not keep your appointments, do not follow the PCP’s medical advice, or disrupt the office. Your PCP can not ask that you are assigned to another PCP because of your medical condition.

Can I choose any of the providers from the Provider Directory to be my PCP?

The Provider Directory shows you which providers are taking new patients. Providers who are not accepting new patients are marked with a (*). If you were with a provider before you enrolled in our plan, that provider may let you continue as a patient. If a PCP’s office is closed to new patients, you will have to select another PCP.
Can I choose the hospital I want?

If you need hospital care, your PCP will decide which hospital you go to. The hospitals are also listed in the Provider Directory.
Do I have Dental Benefits?

Dental services are not covered services under the Medi-Cal managed care contract. Beneficiaries receive dental services through Denti-Cal or through a Dental Managed Care plan. Please visit the Denti-Cal website for more information. You can also call the Denti-Cal Beneficiary at:

Telephone Service Center: (800) 322-6384
Hearing Impaired (TTY): (800) 735-2922

Is the information in the Provider Directory current?

The information changes often. You can call a provider to see if they are taking new patients or, you can call the Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 ( Hearing Impaired -TTY/TTD)

When can I see my PCP?

You can see your Primary Care Physician or PCP for routine care and when you are sick. Call your PCP and make an appointment.

When you call to make an appointment, you may not be able to see the provider as soon as you want. HPSJ has standards for all participating providers for scheduling appointments. The wait times listed below apply to all HPSJ providers: PCPs, specialists, ancillary and mental health providers:

Urgent Care Services that do not require an authorization
Within 48 hours of a request for an appointment

Urgent Care Services that require an authorization
Within 96 hours of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Care
Within 10 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Specialty Care
Within 15 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Mental Health Care
Within 10 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent appointments for ancillary services
Within 15 business days of a request for an appointment

If you are not sure whether you have an emergency or if you need urgent care, call your PCP’s office, even during the hours that your PCP’s office is normally closed. Your PCP or the doctor on-call will be able to tell you how to handle the problem at home or if you should go to an urgent care center or a hospital emergency room. This is called triage or screening services.

You can also call the Advice Nurse Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for triage and screening services at 1-800-655-8294.

What does my PCP do?

Your PCP:

Manages your health care services

Provides most of your health care, including preventive services

Refers you to a specialist when you need one

Authorizes and arranges for needed hospital care

What happens at my first Doctor’s visit?
Don’t wait until you are sick to see your PCP. New Members should meet with their PCP for an Initial Health Assessment or check-up within 120 days (4 months) of enrolling in HPSJ. Children 18 months old or younger should see their PCP within 60 days of becoming a member. A check-up helps your PCP to get to know you and your health care needs. This will also help your PCP take care of you when you are sick.

At your first visit, your PCP will also check to see if you need to see a dentist. If needed, you will be referred to Denti-Cal.

Do I have to see my PCP for OB/GYN care?
Women can go to any participating doctor, family practitioner, or nurse practitioner for routine and preventive OB/GYN care. You do not need approval from HPSJ or a referral from your PCP. Women can also have OB/GYNs as their PCP.

The following are the most common services you get from an OB/GYN:

Breast examination

Gynecological examinations and treatment

Pap smear and

Prenatal care

Can I see a Specialty Physician?
You can see any Specialist that your PCP sends you to for evaluation, consultation, or care. This is called a “referral”.
When do I need a referral?
Your PCP will talk to you about your health care needs. If your PCP cannot give you the services you need, he/she will refer you to a Specialist or for treatment at a hospital. Your PCP will complete the referral for you. Your PCP will know when you must get a referral before you are able to see a Specialist.
What services can I get without a referral?
You do not need a referral for:

Preventive care

Urgent or Emergency care

Family planning

OB/GYN

HIV testing and counseling

First treatment for a sexually transmitted disease

If I need Specialist care for a long time, do I have to ask for a referral from my PCP each time I see the Specialist?
No. If you need ongoing care from a Specialist because of a serious or life-threatening problem, the Specialist can ask for an extended referral. Examples of health problems that could get an extended referral are serious cases of cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes, MS, or HIV/AIDS.

If HPSJ and your PCP approve it, you will need only one referral. We will make a decision about the referral within 3 (three working days. The referral will be made to the Specialist within 4 working days after the decision is made.

If you think you need an extended referral, talk to your PCP. For more information on specialty providers or extended referrals, call the Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (Hearing Impaired – TTY/TTD).

What services require an approval from HPSJ?
You have to get HPSJ approval, also called an authorization, for:

Hospitalization

Services out of the HPSJ service area (but not for emergency and urgent care services)

Outpatient surgery, long-term therapy, or specialized treatments

Durable Medical Equipment (DME), Medical Supplies, Orthotic and Prosthetic Devices

How do I get HPSJ approval?
Your PCP or Specialist will ask us for approval before you get the services.
How long does it take to get HPSJ approval?
We will make a decision regarding your provider’s request for approval in a timely manner, no longer than 5 working days of receiving the request and all of the necessary information. If the request is urgent, we will let your provider know within 24 hours.
Will HPSJ approve any care I want?
You are covered only for the health care services that you need. If our Medical Director determines you do not have a medical need for certain services, we will not approve those services.

If we do not approve a requested service, we will tell you why. You will receive a letter explaining why the authorization was not approved, or denied. If you do not agree with the explanation given, you may appeal the decision by filing a complaint. For information on how to file a complaint, see “How do I file a complaint” section of your Evidence of Coverage.

To learn more about how we make those decisions, ask the Customer Service Department for a copy of our medical necessity guidelines.

If you see a provider that does not have a contract with us, without our approval, HPSJ is not responsible for the care you receive from that provider.

What if I want a second opinion?

You can get a second opinion from a participating provider for certain services, including:

surgery

treatment or diagnoses of serious or life-threatening conditions

complex cases or cases with conflicting test results

cases where the Member does not respond well after an appropriate amount of time

To get a second opinion, you can request to be referred to doctors specializing in that area of medicine. Most of the time, the second opinion must be from a HPSJ doctor. However, if there is not an HPSJ doctor qualified to see you, we will authorize a second opinion from a provider outside of our network.

If you do not know which doctor to see for a second opinion, ask your doctor or call HSPJ for a recommendation.

Once you decide who you want to see, ask your doctor or HPSJ to refer you. Then make an appointment to see one of these doctors. You must get the second opinion within 30 days after the first opinion, or as soon as possible. If the second opinion is different from the first opinion, you or HPSJ can ask for a third opinion.

HPSJ will let you know when your request for a second opinion is approved. For a routine condition, we will let you know within 5 working days of your request. If your case is urgent, we will let you know within 72 hours of your request.

If we deny your request, we will let you know within 24 hours of our decision. If you do not agree with our decision, you can file a complaint with the Department of Managed Health Care (Section 2. <em>Members Rights and Responsibilities.)</em>

There is no cost to you for a second or third opinion, if HPSJ approves it first. For more information on second opinions, call the Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), <em>toll-free </em>(209) 942-6306 (TTD/TTY)

How do I get care after normal business hours?
If you need medical services after normal business hours or on the weekend, call your doctor’s office. Some doctors have longer office hours or weekend hours. When you call your doctor, he/she will advise you on where to go for medical services. If your doctor is not available, you can call the Advice Nurse at 1-800-655-8294. If you need emergency medical services, call “911” or go to the nearest emergency room.
What if I need urgent care?

Urgent Care is care you need right away to and to keep your medical condition from getting worse. Some examples of urgent care are:

Sore throat

Fever

Minor cuts

You do not need to ask us for approval first before getting emergency care or urgent care. You do not have to see a participating provider for emergency or urgent care.

If you need care during normal business hours, call your PCP. His or her staff will make an appointment for you, or tell you where to go for care.

If you are inside HPSJ’s Service Area and you need urgent care, you should call your doctor for advice. If you can’t reach your doctor, or if it is after normal business hours or on the weekends you can call the Advice Nurse at 1-800-655-8294. The nurse will help you decide what to do.

If you are outside HPSJ’s Service Area and need urgent care, you must call HPSJ within twenty-four (24) hours of getting urgent services, or as soon as you are able to. A provider outside of HPSJ’s Service Area may send you a bill for urgent services. If you do get a bill, refer to “If You Get A Bill” in your Evidence of Coverage.

What do I do in an emergency?

Emergency services are covered inside and outside of HPSJ’s service area. Emergency services do not need approval from HPSJ, and are provided at no cost to you.

An emergency is a medical or psychiatric condition that could get worse if you don’t get immediate care by:

Placing your health in serious danger,

Causing serious harm to bodily functions, or

Causing serious harm to any bodily organ or part.

Examples include:

Active labor

Broken bones

Chest pain

Severe burns

Fainting

Drug overdose

Paralysis

Severe cuts that won’t stop bleeding

Psychiatric emergency conditions

If you think you have a health emergency, call 911. You are not required to call your doctor before you go to the emergency room. Do not use the emergency room for routine (regular) health care.

What do I do after an emergency?
HPSJ must be notified within twenty-four (24) hours, or, if you are unable to notify us, as soon as you can. It is important for you to see your PCP when you get out of the hospital for follow-up care.
How do I get emergency care outside of HPSJ’s Service Area?

If you have an emergency when you are not in HPSJ’s Service Area, you can get emergency services at the nearest emergency facility. Emergency services do not require a referral or okay from your PCP doctor.

If you are admitted to a hospital not in HPSJ’s network or to a hospital your PCP doctor or other provider does not work at, HPSJ has the right to move you to a network hospital as soon as it is medically safe to do so. You may need hospital care after an emergency to stabilize your condition. This is called post-stabilization care. If you do, the hospital will call HPSJ to ask for an okay.

The hospital will ask you for your ID card. If you don’t have your ID card, tell the hospital to call HPSJ. If you do not agree to being transferred to a contracted hospital that can provide the care you need, you may have to pay for the post-stabilization services.

Your PCP doctor must provide follow-up care when you leave the hospital.

For maternity related Emergency Services, refer to the Pregnancy and Maternity Services” of your Evidence of Coverage under “What Does HPSJ Cover?”


What if I can’t get the services I need from a participating provider?
If no participating provider can give you the services you need, you can get those services from a non-participating provider. Before you receives services from a non-participating provider, your PCP must ask HPSJ for approval. If your case is urgent, we will let your provider know within 72 hours. For non-urgent cases, we will let the provider know within 5 business days.

What if my doctor can no longer care for me?

If your doctor is no longer part of our plan, you may be able to continue to see that doctor if the doctor agrees with HPSJ to do so and if you are being treated for:

A serious, chronic condition or acute condition

A pregnancy

A terminal illness

You may also continue with that doctor if:

You were receiving care for your baby (up to 36 months of age)

HPSJ approved a surgery or procedure with that doctor

Remember: the doctor does not have to continue caring for you. For more information, or to request a copy of this policy, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD)


Getting care outside of HPSJ’S network

For routine (regular) care, all health care services are provided in HPSJ’s Service Area. Routine care outside of HPSJ’s Service Area is not covered.

In most cases, you need to get care within HPSJ’s network and within HPSJ’s Service Area. However, when you are not in the Service Area (San Joaquin or Stanislaus counties) you can always get emergency care at the nearest emergency facility.

If you get care from a non-contracted provider (a doctor or other provider that is not a part of HPSJ’s network) or outside of HPSJ’s Service Area, you may be billed by the provider and you may have to pay, except for emergency care, urgent care, family planning and for sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing services. You can learn more about this under “What to do in an emergency?” section of your Evidence of Coverage.

What if I receive a bill?

HPSJ pays for all covered medical services provided by your PCP doctor, contracted specialist or for an emergency. You should not get a bill for any services covered by HPSJ. Please call Customer Service toll-free at 1-888-936-PLAN (7526) right away if you receive a medical bill. You may get a medical bill if you go to a doctor that does not work with HPSJ or is located outside of HPSJ’s Service Area. If this happens, you may be billed by the doctor and you may have to pay for services that are not covered by HPSJ. If you pay the bill, keep a copy or record of your payment. Send a copy of your payment to HPSJ for review. If the bill is for covered or authorized services, you may receive a refund from HPSJ.

You should not be billed for emergency care, urgent care, the care required to stabilize an emergency condition, family planning services, or for sexually transmitted disease testing at a clinic. If you receive a bill, do not pay it. Call HPSJ right away to assist you with the issue.

Do not pay medical bills you get from a collection company. If you get a bill for covered services and need help or if you want to file a complaint, call the Customer Service Department at (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD).

How to Get Your Prescription Drugs

Sometimes when you are sick or have a health condition like asthma or diabetes, your doctor may give you a prescription. Your doctor will give you a prescription based on your health needs. You must get your prescribed medications (drugs) from a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. Medi-Cal Rx partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7. Medi-Cal Members should not be asked to pay for prescription drugs. Call HPSJ if you are asked to pay for a prescription.

For New Prescriptions:
You must get your prescribed medications (drugs) from a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. Medi-Cal Rx partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.

For Prescription Refills:
If you are refilling a prescription, you can go to a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. HPSJ partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.

How to Get a Prescription Filled at the Pharmacy:
Choose a participating pharmacy near you. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.

Bring your prescription to the pharmacy.

Give the prescription to the pharmacy with your Medi-Cal Benefits Identification Card. This will help the pharmacy fill your prescription.

Make sure you give the pharmacy your correct address and phone number.

Make sure the pharmacy knows about all medications you are taking and any allergies you have to any medicine.

If you have any questions about your prescription(s), ask to speak with the pharmacist to get more information.


Can I see any doctor?
HPSJ has a Provider Directory that lists the participating primary care physicians and hospitals you can use. Participating providers are primary care physicians, clinics, hospitals, other non-physician health care providers and facilities. To search for any participating provider, use the online search tool located on the Home page. You can get a copy of HPSJ’s provider directory by calling Customer Service 1-888-936- PLAN. You can also view the provider directory on our website at www.hpsj.com.
What if I was seeing a doctor before enrolling in HPSJ?

You may have been getting care from another doctor or hospital before you were an HPSJ Member for:

  • a serious chronic condition or acute condition
  • a terminal illness
  • a pregnancy
  • care for a child (up to 36 months of age) or
  • a planned surgery or procedure

If that doctor or hospital is not one of our providers, you may be able to continue to get the care you need if the doctor or hospital agrees with HPSJ to do so. For more information, or to request a copy of this policy, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (Hearing Impaired – TTY/TTD)

Can I choose my Primary Care Provider (PCP)?

Yes. Use the Provider Directory to choose a PCP for yourself. Also, choose a PCP for everyone in your family who has HPSJ. You can choose a different PCP for your family members. A PCP can be a family practitioner, general practitioner, internist, pediatrician, OB/GYN or clinic. If you choose a clinic, you may also have to choose a provider that works at that clinic. If you have recently had a baby, remember to choose a PCP for your newborn.. You can choose or change your PCP online through the member portal or by calling (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD).

You may also choose a doctor within the local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for your primary care. If you are a Native American, you can get services at any Indian Health Service Facility. You can also disenroll from HPSJ at any time and get services through the Medi-Cal fee-for-service program. You also have the right to not enroll in a Medi-Cal Managed Care plan.

For information on the availability of the FQHC and Indian Health Service Facility clinics, and how to get services at these clinics, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD)

What if I don’t choose a PCP?

If you do not choose a PCP within 30 days after you enroll, we will assign you a PCP. The PCP’s name will be on your ID card. If you do not want that PCP, call the Customer Service Department right away to choose another PCP or change your PCP online using HPSJ’s member portal.
What if I want to change my PCP?

It is important that you have a good relationship with your PCP. It is also necessary that you choose a PCP that is located in a place you can get to for appointments. If you want to change your PCP, choose another provider from our Provider Directory. If you need help finding a PCP that speaks your language or meets your needs, our Customer Service Department can assist you. You cannot see another PCP without telling us first.

Sometimes your PCP may ask that you be assigned to another PCP. This may be because you do not keep your appointments, do not follow the PCP’s medical advice, or disrupt the office. Your PCP can not ask that you are assigned to another PCP because of your medical condition.

Can I choose any of the providers from the Provider Directory to be my PCP?

The Provider Directory shows you which providers are taking new patients. Providers who are not accepting new patients are marked with a (*). If you were with a provider before you enrolled in our plan, that provider may let you continue as a patient. If a PCP’s office is closed to new patients, you will have to select another PCP.
Can I choose the hospital I want?

If you need hospital care, your PCP will decide which hospital you go to. The hospitals are also listed in the Provider Directory.
Do I have Dental Benefits?

Dental services are not covered services under the Medi-Cal managed care contract. Beneficiaries receive dental services through Denti-Cal or through a Dental Managed Care plan. Please visit the Denti-Cal website for more information. You can also call the Denti-Cal Beneficiary at:

Telephone Service Center: (800) 322-6384
Hearing Impaired (TTY): (800) 735-2922

Is the information in the Provider Directory current?

The information changes often. You can call a provider to see if they are taking new patients or, you can call the Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 ( Hearing Impaired -TTY/TTD)

When can I see my PCP?

You can see your Primary Care Physician or PCP for routine care and when you are sick. Call your PCP and make an appointment.

When you call to make an appointment, you may not be able to see the provider as soon as you want. HPSJ has standards for all participating providers for scheduling appointments. The wait times listed below apply to all HPSJ providers: PCPs, specialists, ancillary and mental health providers:

Urgent Care Services that do not require an authorization
Within 48 hours of a request for an appointment

Urgent Care Services that require an authorization
Within 96 hours of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Care
Within 10 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Specialty Care
Within 15 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent Mental Health Care
Within 10 business days of a request for an appointment

Non-Urgent appointments for ancillary services
Within 15 business days of a request for an appointment

If you are not sure whether you have an emergency or if you need urgent care, call your PCP’s office, even during the hours that your PCP’s office is normally closed. Your PCP or the doctor on-call will be able to tell you how to handle the problem at home or if you should go to an urgent care center or a hospital emergency room. This is called triage or screening services.

You can also call the Advice Nurse Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for triage and screening services at 1-800-655-8294.

What does my PCP do?

Your PCP:

  • Manages your health care services
  • Provides most of your health care, including preventive services
  • Refers you to a specialist when you need one
  • Authorizes and arranges for needed hospital care

What happens at my first Doctor’s visit?
Don’t wait until you are sick to see your PCP. New Members should meet with their PCP for an Initial Health Assessment or check-up within 120 days (4 months) of enrolling in HPSJ. Children 18 months old or younger should see their PCP within 60 days of becoming a member. A check-up helps your PCP to get to know you and your health care needs. This will also help your PCP take care of you when you are sick.

At your first visit, your PCP will also check to see if you need to see a dentist. If needed, you will be referred to Denti-Cal.

Do I have to see my PCP for OB/GYN care?
Women can go to any participating doctor, family practitioner, or nurse practitioner for routine and preventive OB/GYN care. You do not need approval from HPSJ or a referral from your PCP. Women can also have OB/GYNs as their PCP.

The following are the most common services you get from an OB/GYN:

Can I see a Specialty Physician?
You can see any Specialist that your PCP sends you to for evaluation, consultation, or care. This is called a “referral”.
When do I need a referral?
Your PCP will talk to you about your health care needs. If your PCP cannot give you the services you need, he/she will refer you to a Specialist or for treatment at a hospital. Your PCP will complete the referral for you. Your PCP will know when you must get a referral before you are able to see a Specialist.
What services can I get without a referral?
You do not need a referral for:

  • Preventive care
  • Urgent or Emergency care
  • Family planning
  • OB/GYN
  • HIV testing and counseling
  • First treatment for a sexually transmitted disease

If I need Specialist care for a long time, do I have to ask for a referral from my PCP each time I see the Specialist?
No. If you need ongoing care from a Specialist because of a serious or life-threatening problem, the Specialist can ask for an extended referral. Examples of health problems that could get an extended referral are serious cases of cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes, MS, or HIV/AIDS.

If HPSJ and your PCP approve it, you will need only one referral. We will make a decision about the referral within 3 (three working days. The referral will be made to the Specialist within 4 working days after the decision is made.

If you think you need an extended referral, talk to your PCP. For more information on specialty providers or extended referrals, call the Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (Hearing Impaired – TTY/TTD).

What services require an approval from HPSJ?
You have to get HPSJ approval, also called an authorization, for:

  • Hospitalization
  • Services out of the HPSJ service area (but not for emergency and urgent care services)
  • Outpatient surgery, long-term therapy, or specialized treatments
  • Durable Medical Equipment (DME), Medical Supplies, Orthotic and Prosthetic Devices

How do I get HPSJ approval?
Your PCP or Specialist will ask us for approval before you get the services.
How long does it take to get HPSJ approval?
We will make a decision regarding your provider’s request for approval in a timely manner, no longer than 5 working days of receiving the request and all of the necessary information. If the request is urgent, we will let your provider know within 24 hours.
Will HPSJ approve any care I want?
You are covered only for the health care services that you need. If our Medical Director determines you do not have a medical need for certain services, we will not approve those services.

If we do not approve a requested service, we will tell you why. You will receive a letter explaining why the authorization was not approved, or denied. If you do not agree with the explanation given, you may appeal the decision by filing a complaint. For information on how to file a complaint, see “How do I file a complaint” section of your Evidence of Coverage.

To learn more about how we make those decisions, ask the Customer Service Department for a copy of our medical necessity guidelines.

If you see a provider that does not have a contract with us, without our approval, HPSJ is not responsible for the care you receive from that provider.

What if I want a second opinion?

You can get a second opinion from a participating provider for certain services, including:

  • surgery
  • treatment or diagnoses of serious or life-threatening conditions
  • complex cases or cases with conflicting test results
  • cases where the Member does not respond well after an appropriate amount of time

To get a second opinion, you can request to be referred to doctors specializing in that area of medicine. Most of the time, the second opinion must be from a HPSJ doctor. However, if there is not an HPSJ doctor qualified to see you, we will authorize a second opinion from a provider outside of our network.

If you do not know which doctor to see for a second opinion, ask your doctor or call HSPJ for a recommendation.

Once you decide who you want to see, ask your doctor or HPSJ to refer you. Then make an appointment to see one of these doctors. You must get the second opinion within 30 days after the first opinion, or as soon as possible. If the second opinion is different from the first opinion, you or HPSJ can ask for a third opinion.

HPSJ will let you know when your request for a second opinion is approved. For a routine condition, we will let you know within 5 working days of your request. If your case is urgent, we will let you know within 72 hours of your request.

If we deny your request, we will let you know within 24 hours of our decision. If you do not agree with our decision, you can file a complaint with the Department of Managed Health Care (Section 2. <em>Members Rights and Responsibilities.)</em>

There is no cost to you for a second or third opinion, if HPSJ approves it first. For more information on second opinions, call the Customer Service Department at:

(209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), <em>toll-free </em>(209) 942-6306 (TTD/TTY)

How do I get care after normal business hours?
If you need medical services after normal business hours or on the weekend, call your doctor’s office. Some doctors have longer office hours or weekend hours. When you call your doctor, he/she will advise you on where to go for medical services. If your doctor is not available, you can call the Advice Nurse at 1-800-655-8294. If you need emergency medical services, call “911” or go to the nearest emergency room.
What if I need urgent care?

Urgent Care is care you need right away to and to keep your medical condition from getting worse. Some examples of urgent care are:

  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Minor cuts

You do not need to ask us for approval first before getting emergency care or urgent care. You do not have to see a participating provider for emergency or urgent care.

If you need care during normal business hours, call your PCP. His or her staff will make an appointment for you, or tell you where to go for care.

If you are inside HPSJ’s Service Area and you need urgent care, you should call your doctor for advice. If you can’t reach your doctor, or if it is after normal business hours or on the weekends you can call the Advice Nurse at 1-800-655-8294. The nurse will help you decide what to do.

If you are outside HPSJ’s Service Area and need urgent care, you must call HPSJ within twenty-four (24) hours of getting urgent services, or as soon as you are able to. A provider outside of HPSJ’s Service Area may send you a bill for urgent services. If you do get a bill, refer to “If You Get A Bill” in your Evidence of Coverage.

What do I do in an emergency?

Emergency services are covered inside and outside of HPSJ’s service area. Emergency services do not need approval from HPSJ, and are provided at no cost to you.

An emergency is a medical or psychiatric condition that could get worse if you don’t get immediate care by:

  • Placing your health in serious danger,
  • Causing serious harm to bodily functions, or
  • Causing serious harm to any bodily organ or part.

Examples include:

  • Active labor
  • Broken bones
  • Chest pain
  • Severe burns
  • Fainting
  • Drug overdose
  • Paralysis
  • Severe cuts that won’t stop bleeding
  • Psychiatric emergency conditions

If you think you have a health emergency, call 911. You are not required to call your doctor before you go to the emergency room. Do not use the emergency room for routine (regular) health care.

What do I do after an emergency?
HPSJ must be notified within twenty-four (24) hours, or, if you are unable to notify us, as soon as you can. It is important for you to see your PCP when you get out of the hospital for follow-up care.
How do I get emergency care outside of HPSJ’s Service Area?

If you have an emergency when you are not in HPSJ’s Service Area, you can get emergency services at the nearest emergency facility. Emergency services do not require a referral or okay from your PCP doctor.

If you are admitted to a hospital not in HPSJ’s network or to a hospital your PCP doctor or other provider does not work at, HPSJ has the right to move you to a network hospital as soon as it is medically safe to do so. You may need hospital care after an emergency to stabilize your condition. This is called post-stabilization care. If you do, the hospital will call HPSJ to ask for an okay.

The hospital will ask you for your ID card. If you don’t have your ID card, tell the hospital to call HPSJ. If you do not agree to being transferred to a contracted hospital that can provide the care you need, you may have to pay for the post-stabilization services.

Your PCP doctor must provide follow-up care when you leave the hospital.

For maternity related Emergency Services, refer to the Pregnancy and Maternity Services” of your Evidence of Coverage under “What Does HPSJ Cover?”


What if I can’t get the services I need from a participating provider?
If no participating provider can give you the services you need, you can get those services from a non-participating provider. Before you receives services from a non-participating provider, your PCP must ask HPSJ for approval. If your case is urgent, we will let your provider know within 72 hours. For non-urgent cases, we will let the provider know within 5 business days.

What if my doctor can no longer care for me?

If your doctor is no longer part of our plan, you may be able to continue to see that doctor if the doctor agrees with HPSJ to do so and if you are being treated for:

  • A serious, chronic condition or acute condition
  • A pregnancy
  • A terminal illness

You may also continue with that doctor if:

  • You were receiving care for your baby (up to 36 months of age)

HPSJ approved a surgery or procedure with that doctor

Remember: the doctor does not have to continue caring for you. For more information, or to request a copy of this policy, call HPSJ’s Customer Service Department at: (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD)


Getting care outside of HPSJ’S network

For routine (regular) care, all health care services are provided in HPSJ’s Service Area. Routine care outside of HPSJ’s Service Area is not covered.

In most cases, you need to get care within HPSJ’s network and within HPSJ’s Service Area. However, when you are not in the Service Area (San Joaquin or Stanislaus counties) you can always get emergency care at the nearest emergency facility.

If you get care from a non-contracted provider (a doctor or other provider that is not a part of HPSJ’s network) or outside of HPSJ’s Service Area, you may be billed by the provider and you may have to pay, except for emergency care, urgent care, family planning and for sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing services. You can learn more about this under “What to do in an emergency?” section of your Evidence of Coverage.

What if I receive a bill?

HPSJ pays for all covered medical services provided by your PCP doctor, contracted specialist or for an emergency. You should not get a bill for any services covered by HPSJ. Please call Customer Service toll-free at 1-888-936-PLAN (7526) right away if you receive a medical bill. You may get a medical bill if you go to a doctor that does not work with HPSJ or is located outside of HPSJ’s Service Area. If this happens, you may be billed by the doctor and you may have to pay for services that are not covered by HPSJ. If you pay the bill, keep a copy or record of your payment. Send a copy of your payment to HPSJ for review. If the bill is for covered or authorized services, you may receive a refund from HPSJ.

You should not be billed for emergency care, urgent care, the care required to stabilize an emergency condition, family planning services, or for sexually transmitted disease testing at a clinic. If you receive a bill, do not pay it. Call HPSJ right away to assist you with the issue.

Do not pay medical bills you get from a collection company. If you get a bill for covered services and need help or if you want to file a complaint, call the Customer Service Department at (209) 942-6320, or 1-888-936-PLAN (7526), toll-free (209) 942-6306 (TTY/TTD).

How to Get Your Prescription Drugs

Sometimes when you are sick or have a health condition like asthma or diabetes, your doctor may give you a prescription. Your doctor will give you a prescription based on your health needs. You must get your prescribed medications (drugs) from a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. Medi-Cal Rx partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7. Medi-Cal Members should not be asked to pay for prescription drugs. Call HPSJ if you are asked to pay for a prescription.

For New Prescriptions:

You must get your prescribed medications (drugs) from a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. Medi-Cal Rx partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.

For Prescription Refills:

If you are refilling a prescription, you can go to a pharmacy that works with Medi-Cal Rx. HPSJ partners with hundreds of local and retail pharmacies. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.

How to Get a Prescription Filled at the Pharmacy:

  1. Choose a participating pharmacy near you. You can find pharmacies in the network at https://medi-calrx.dhcs.ca.gov/home/find-a-pharmacy, or call the Medi-Cal Rx Call Center Line, 1.800.977.2273 TTY/ TDD 711, 24/7.
  2. Bring your prescription to the pharmacy.
  3. Give the prescription to the pharmacy with your Medi-Cal Benefits Identification Card. This will help the pharmacy fill your prescription.
  4. Make sure you give the pharmacy your correct address and phone number.
  5. Make sure the pharmacy knows about all medications you are taking and any allergies you have to any medicine.
  6. If you have any questions about your prescription(s), ask to speak with the pharmacist to get more information.

Posted on June 16th, 2015 and last modified on July 29th, 2022.

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