Provider

A provider is a licensed healthcare professional, facility, or service organization that delivers medical, dental, vision, or paramedical care to patients. In the context of insurance, a provider is any individual or entity authorized to perform covered services and submit claims for reimbursement to an insurer. Providers include physicians, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, optometrists, hospitals, and clinics.

Insurance plans often distinguish between in-network providers, who have agreed to direct billing arrangements and negotiated rates with the insurer, and out-of-network providers, who may charge higher fees and require the patient to pay upfront and submit a claim for reimbursement. Working with approved or in-network providers helps ensure faster claim processing and lower out-of-pocket costs.

Example:

If you visit a physiotherapist after a sports injury and the therapist is listed as an approved provider under your plan, the clinic can bill your insurer directly, and you only pay the remaining balance not covered by your plan.

What to Watch For:

Confirm that your provider is licensed and recognized by your insurance company before receiving treatment. Some plans require that services be provided by specific professionals (for example, a registered massage therapist versus an unregistered practitioner) to qualify for reimbursement. For travel or extended care, check whether your provider is eligible for direct billing or if you must submit receipts manually.