I have an HMO, I had a PPO up until a couple of years ago (cost savings was so much better for the HMO). I decided to give a try, when I called the referral line, I was worried b/c I live in NH, I go to a place where all the Doc's are in the same building in NH and I want to go to the Chrons and Colitis Center in Boston. The referral line said that I just have to go through my specialist or primary and that they do referrals there. Such peace of mind. I was so worried I would have to change all my Doc's etc. I work in MA (went to the Doc's in MA when I had PPO & @ same co.), so I have coverage in MA too as well as NH, have BCBS.
Also, I talked to my Aunt who is going to research too and we are getting together for dinner next week, darn pred makes me cry! She's so sweet! I can't wait to be there for her someday, though I hope it's a long time.