Which term describes a physician who accepts an insurance carrier's plan?

A physician who accepts an insurance carrier's plan is referred to as a participating provider. This designation indicates that the physician has agreed to the terms and conditions set forth by the insurance company, which often includes accepting the insurance company's reimbursement rates for services provided to patients enrolled in that plan. Participating providers are typically part of an insurance network, allowing patients to receive care at lower out-of-pocket costs when they choose to see these providers.

Being a participating provider benefits both the physician and the patients; patients can receive more affordable healthcare, while physicians benefit from an expanded patient base through the insurance network. This participation can enhance the workflow for the physician's office, as they often have streamlined processes for handling claims and payment through the insurance carrier.

In contrast, nonparticipating providers do not accept the terms of the insurance plan, which may result in higher out-of-pocket costs for patients who choose to see them. The other terms, such as deductible provider and referral provider, do not accurately describe the context of accepting an insurance plan and focus instead on different aspects of the insurance and healthcare system.