Johns Hopkins physicians are among the best in the nation, and a recently launched hotline (1-866-206-7210) will help Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System Corporation employees schedule new-patient appointments for specialty care. Hope Marsh, senior director of benefits and wellness for the Johns Hopkins Health System, explains how to get the most out of the dedicated phone line to facilitate scheduling timely appointments with Johns Hopkins specialists.
What is the phone number for the new specialty appointment line?
The number is 1-866-206-7210. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
What is the purpose of this number?
This number is to help EHP members of Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Johns Hopkins HealthCare, Johns Hopkins Home Care Group, Johns Hopkins Health System Corporation and The Johns Hopkins Hospital who are seeking treatment with a Hopkins Preferred Provider to schedule specialty appointments within a reasonable time frame.
Access to Johns Hopkins providers has been an issue for employees and their family members for years. How will this line make a difference?
All departments have committed to working with the new specialty appointment line representatives to help improve EHP members’ access to Hopkins Preferred Providers. This is a dedicated line for employees and their covered dependents. Where possible, clinics have set aside appointment times to accommodate EHP members.
Who is staffing this line?
A nurse will answer calls for urgent appointments that need to be scheduled within 48 hours. All other calls will be directed to a designated group in Access Services.
I need a new primary care physician. Can I call this number to get an appointment?
No, this number is for new specialty appointments. For primary care, there is no differentiation between a Hopkins Preferred Provider and an EHP network provider. The difference in copays is based on whether or not the member has selected a primary care provider within the EHP Network and notified EHP Customer Service.
Will this number allow me to see the specialist I want?
Whenever possible, the representative will get you an appointment with the physician of your choice. However, due to volume and/or availability, they may need to schedule your appointment with a nurse practitioner or physician assistant in the practice in order to get you in within a reasonable time frame.
I already see a Hopkins Preferred Specialist. Would this line help me get more timely appointments?
This line is mainly for securing appointments for EHP members who have not been successful in getting a first-time specialist appointment through the regular access lines. If you see a Hopkins Preferred Provider on a regular basis, please try to schedule your next appointment at the end of your visit. However, if you are unsuccessful in getting a timely appointment, the new specialty appointment line may be able to help.
I have heard that some specialty practices are not fully staffed and do not have the capacity to handle additional patients, or that there are no providers for some specialties under the Johns Hopkins Medicine umbrella. What if I can’t be seen by a Hopkins Preferred Provider?
The 2014 EHP Medical Plan for Johns Hopkins Health System/Hospital and Johns Hopkins Bayview members is a 90/10 co-insurance plan. Whenever possible, members may be able to take advantage of the Hopkins Preferred Network and the higher benefit of 100 percent coverage after copay. However, if a Hopkins Preferred Provider is not available and a member uses the EHP Network, the 10 percent co-insurance will apply.
What are some of the specialties?
Allergy, Cardiology, Dermatology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedic Surgery, Otolaryngology and Obstetrics.
What is considered a reasonable time frame?
This line is not intended to guarantee members a specific turnaround time; it is to ensure that whenever possible, EHP members will be seen in a reasonable period of time for their specific health issue.
Who should I contact with questions or concerns?
Please let the access line representative you speak with know of any questions or comments you have and they should be able to direct you. You may also email your issue to:
- hrbenefit@jhmi.edu for Johns Hopkins Health System/Johns Hopkins Hospital employees
- bayviewbenefits@jhmi.edu for Johns Hopkins Bayview employees
- blampro1@jhmi.edu for Johns Hopkins Home Care Group employees
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Is this phone # available for JHU employees with EHP insurance?
Thanks, Lois
Yes. The phone number for all EHP members is 1-866-206-7210.
What about EHP members that work for the SOM?
Yes, the line is available to all EHP members.