Purchased & Referred Care

At Lassen Indian Health Center, we are proud to be able to offer our patients our Purchased & Referred Care Program in order to assist our patients in receiving comprehensive healthcare.

Purchased & Referred Care

What is the Purchased & Referred Care Program?

Purchased & Referred Care (PRC) is a benefit available to our American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) patients. Most medical and dental services offered by the Lassen Indian Health Center are considered “Direct Care.” However, should a tribal member need a specialty service that is not available at LIHC, a referral may be required. The LIHC Purchased and Referred Care Specialist assists with medical referrals and manages payments provided for eligible beneficiaries.

In order to receive assistance from Purchased & Referred Care, it is important to understand the process and guidelines. All qualifications must be met before services are rendered. Since funds are limited, there are mandatory federal guidelines that must be followed.

PRC Service Delivery Area

The Lassen Indian Health Center offers Purchased and Referred Care within the following service delivery area:

Bieber
Doyle
Herlong
Janesville
Litchfield
Madeline
Milford
Nubieber
Ravendale
Standish
Susanville
Termo
Wendel
Westwood

Purchased & Referred Care Eligibility

Read below to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.

Eligibility Checklist

Eligible beneficiaries are determined according to the Indian Health Service’s eligibility policy. Generally, to be eligible for Lassen Indian Health Center’s Purchased & Referred Care you must be an enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe.

Proof of residency in Lassen County – P.O. Boxes are not accepted
Proof of insurance coverage
AI/AN tribal verification
Active patient at LIHC
Have had an annual physical
Valid referral

Before receiving services, the patient must obtain a valid referral from the LIHC provider and the PRC Specialist must be contacted in order to check eligibility so that the patient avoids receiving a bill for specialty services. The Purchase and Referred Care Specialist will verify patient eligibility and confirm that the specialty services are covered.

What is the Referral Process?

The medical provider at LIHC will make a referral for the patient to see a specialist.
Patient is to contact the PRC Specialist to check for eligibility and coverage.
The PRC Specialist will process the referral and mail a copy of the referral to the patient.