Specialized Health Care May Be Lacking under Obamacare Plans

The researchers say the study relied on network directories, which are known to overestimate in-network providers (see Reuters Health story from Oct. 29, 2014). They add that the problem of access to in-network specialists may be even worse in rural areas.

“I think on the consumer side, they need to be really watchful of what is actually contained in their plans and what they’re getting,” Dorner said.

Additionally, he said the terms to evaluate plans should be better defined, and existing regulations should be enforced.