Understanding the changes involving RGA and Mercyhealth
Since 1980, Rockford Gastroenterology physicians and staff have been committed to working in a collaborative manner with our patients, their families, and other health care providers and hospital systems. We’ve recently gone through some changes with our provider relationships, and as of November 10, 2017, RGA physicians no longer have privileges to see patients who are admitted to Mercyhealth Rockton Avenue campus or perform procedures at that location (formerly Rockford Memorial Hospital).
You still have a choice when it comes to your gastrointestinal (GI) care. Even though your Primary Care Provider (PCP) may work at a particular health system, if your insurance permits, you can still see an RGA doctor at our clinic or have a procedure done at our endoscopy center. RGA doctors will continue to care for patients who are admitted to or need a procedure at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center or SwedishAmerican Hospital.
We accept most insurance plans, and we have an exceptional team of 14 board-certified Gastroenterologists and 9 nurse practitioners in Rockford available for your digestive health needs. We can help you verify your insurance and help you determine if you need a referral, which is not always necessary. Call us at 815-397-7340 if you have any questions, or click here to request an appointment.
Additionally, here are some fast facts to some commonly asked questions:
Fast Fact #1: It is not difficult to transfer my records.
It’s easy! RGA has a Medical Records department dedicated every day to getting your medical records quickly and completely. We’re here to help. Call us at
815-397-7340, and we can help you get started and make sure your records get to where they need to be.
Fast Fact #2: You do not always need a referral to see a specialist.
While some insurances require a referral to see a specialist, others do not. Be sure to check with your insurance plan first to get the most accurate information by calling the number listed on the back of your insurance card.
Fast Fact #3: RGA accepts nearly all insurance plans in our region.
We accept most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Coventry, Medicare and Medicaid, as well as Blue Cross Blue Shield and many others. Call us at
815-397-7340 to find out if you’re covered.
Fast Fact #4: Having your procedure performed at RGA is often less expensive.
Your procedure, such as a colonoscopy, performed at RGA’s nationally recognized and accredited ambulatory surgery center (ASC) is often less expensive than the same procedure performed at a hospital outpatient department (HOPD). A recent Medicare study reported that procedures performed in an ASC setting cost nearly
50 percent less than the amount Medicare paid the hospital for the same procedures. There are many factors that go into how much health care costs in different situations. It is important to speak with your insurance plan regarding your specific coverage and out-of-pocket costs. If you have specific questions, please call us at
815-397-7340 to speak to a billing professional.
Thank you for considering RGA for your GI health!
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