CHOC Children’s has more than 500 pediatric specialists in more than 30 specialty areas. As we strive to make the appointment-setting process as easy as possible for parents and referring physicians, we offer the following frequently asked questions.
Q: How can I be sure my child’s treatment at CHOC is covered by my insurance?
A: Choose a health insurance plan that has CHOC Children’s in its network when you review health care coverage options for your family. If you have any questions about your coverage, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance provider.
Q: How do parents make appointments for their children at CHOC?
A: To make an appointment at CHOC, talk to your child’s primary care doctor (pediatrician) about obtaining a referral. He or she will provide us with your child’s pertinent health records, as well as obtain authorization from your insurance company. Once all documentation has been received, we will call you to schedule your child’s appointment. If you have any questions, please call the Patient Access Center at 888-770-2462 and select “Specialty Care.”
Q: How quickly can my child be seen by a specialist?
A: We strive to see all patients in a timely matter and do our best to provide immediate appointments when possible. Some of our services are in high demand by children in our community. For that reason, there may be a delay in the availability of the referred specialist. Urgent conditions require medical review to ensure priority scheduling. Your pediatrician will contact our specialist to determine the best treatment plan for your child.
Q: Where will my child’s appointment be scheduled?
A: CHOC specialty services are available at several health centers across Southern California, however, not every specialist sees patients at every location. We will provide you information about your location at the time of scheduling.
Q: Once I get an appointment, what do I need to bring to my first visit?
A: Your child’s doctor will provide us your child’s medical records ahead of time. Please bring additional information that you would like us to know, such as medications your child may need that day, a list of questions you may have and any new patient forms that may have been mailed to you. You will also be asked to pay any required co-pays at the time of your visit.
Q: My child’s pediatrician referred me to a specific specialist. Is this the physician who my child will see?
A: Specialists work in group practice at CHOC, so your child may be treated by another doctor who works in tandem with the specialist identified by his or her primary care doctor. All of our specialists are specially trained and qualified to provide care for your child.
Q: Why was my referral not accepted?
A: Not all medical conditions require specialty care. Our specialists review each referral case, and may determine that a child would be more appropriately treated by his or her primary care physician.
If you have any additional questions about scheduling an appointment at CHOC, please call the Patient Access Center at 888-770-2462.
