Making Appointments and Getting the Care You Need
Date: 03/17/25
To get many common types of care, all you need to do is choose an in-network provider and make an appointment. You can choose to get care from a different in-network PCP or specialist provider at any time.
No approval is required from your provider or from Louisiana Healthcare Connections for you to access these services:
Services Available Without Approval
- Visits to a PCP, pediatricians, family doctors, or specialist doctors
- Urgent care
- OB-GYN care
- Behavioral health services (mental health and substance use services)
- Routine vision services
Always Covered Services
The following services are always covered whether or not the provider is in our network:
- Emergency services
- Family planning services and supplies
- Women’s preventive health services
We do not require a referral from your PCP to see a specialist. However, some specialists may require a referral. If that is the case, they will tell you.
How to Make an Appointment
If you need help finding or choosing a provider, we’ll be happy to help. Call us at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Or you can find a provider online using our Find a Provider tool. You can make an appointment by calling the provider during their business hours.
How to Change an Appointment
If you need to change your appointment, call your provider as soon as you know you need to reschedule. Your provider can then offer that appointment day or time to another patient.
How to Cancel an Appointment
Don’t be a no-show! If you need to cancel your appointment, call your provider at least 24 hours in advance or as soon as you know you need to cancel. Your provider can then offer that appointment day or time to another patient.
Appointment Waiting Times
In-network providers will keep reasonable operation hours and be available based on your medical needs. You should be given an appointment within the following time frames:
Emergency Care
- Emergency care: 24 hours, 7 days a week, within 1 hour of request
Non-Emergency Care
- Urgent non-emergency care: 24 hours, 7 days a week, within 24 hours of request
- Non-urgent sick primary care: 72 hours
- Non-urgent routine primary care: 6 weeks
- After hours, by phone: Answer by live person or call-back from a designated medical practitioner within 30 minutes
For more appointment wait times and resources, refer to your member handbook.
If you have questions about receiving care or appointments, please call us at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711). We will work with you to make sure you receive the care you need.