CHOOSE A WINNING SURGERY TEAM
WITH PREMERA’S
CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE
Premera's Designated Centers of Excellence or COEs are hospitals that meet high quality standards, have highly skilled healthcare providers, use advanced technologies and treatments, provide excellent patient experience, and have great surgical outcomes.
frequently asked questions
why should i go to a coe?
Because hospitals and providers that are part of the COE program have proven their ability to deliver exceptional outcomes for patients with certain medical conditions. Basically, they are really good at what they do.
I need a knee replacement. Should i consider going to a coe?
Yes. Knee replacements are a covered procedure. Other covered procedures are:
Hip replacement
Spine surgery
Cardiac care
Maternity
Oncology
Gene therapy & cellular immunotherapy
Substance use treatment and recovery
how much will it cost me?
If you get your knee replacement or other covered procedures at a COE, the cost of the surgery is covered in full by your insurance. You must contact Premera and work with Premera’s COE team BEFORE receiving care at the COE. Just because you happen to get your surgery at a COE doesn’t mean your cost shares are waived. It’s best to call Premera Customer Service if you need any of the above listed covered procedures. Customer Service will put you in touch with their COE team who will take care of everything.
What if the coe is far away from my home?
If the nearest COE is 50+ miles away from your home, we will pay the travel expenses to and from the facilities for you and a care companion. This includes air travel, ground transportation to and from the facility, parking fees, and hotel accommodations. The maximum reimbursement is $7,500. Premera will work with you to determine which travel benefits are covered and to schedule travel details. You must work with Premera on travel arrangements. Booking your own flight and sending in a receipt will not qualify for reimbursement.
Who is considered a care companion?
A care companion is a family member or friend who will care for you before and after your surgery.
where are the coes located?
Depending on the type of surgery, COEs are located in Spokane, Moses Lake, Tri-Cities, Walla Walla, and Seattle area. For complex issues, COEs may be located in a different state. To find the closest COE for the type of surgery you need, it’s best to contact Premera Customer Service.
How do i schedule my surgery at a COE?
Call Premera Customer Service who can put you in touch with a COE team. A team of providers, including a surgeon, will review your medical records. They will then discuss with you whether surgery is the right option and make a plan with you for next steps in care.
Who handles all the arrangements?
Premera’s personal support services will transfer your medical records, schedule local pre- and postoperative care appointments, and make and pay for travel arrangements.
Do I have to get my knee replacement at a COE?
No. It’s your choice where you receive care. Keep in mind that if you don’t get the knee replacement at a COE, regular member cost shares, such deductible and coinsurance applies. And, you don’t get reimbursement for travel expenses.