Aetna extends direct access to OB/GYNs for members nationwide

Indicative of a nationwide trend among carriers to relax gatekeeper policies, Aetna U.S. Healthcare recently began allowing their female HMO members direct access to OB/GYNs participating in Aetna’s physician network without requiring a referral from a primary care physician. In addition, participating OB/GYNs will also be able to directly manage and plan a woman’s gynecological care, including issuing referrals for specialist care and testing.

"Our new policy recognizes a woman’s unique health needs and the central role her OB/GYNs plays in maintaining her health throughout the stages of her life," says Arnold W. Cohen, MD, Aetna U.S. Healthcare’s senior medical director for women’s health.