* Currently in 2025 contract negotiations

Please contact the health plan directly or CalPERS for more information or questions about benefits and coverage.

The main difference between an HMO and a PPO is the network of providers and the referral process.

With an HMO, you have access to a select network of providers and must choose a primary care physician (PCP) who provides most of your healthcare, coordinates your care and refers you to specialists. HMO plans often come at a lower cost compared to PPO plans.

With a PPO, you have access to a broader network of providers and can self-refer to specialists. While you’re encouraged to stay in-network for cost-saving benefits, you can receive care out-of-network. However, this flexibility often comes with higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs than an HMO

To learn more, download the Understanding Your Health Plan guide.

If you have coverage through your employer, please contact your human resources department to see if they offer plans that include the Sutter network.

If you purchase your coverage independently, you can find an individual and family plan that includes Sutter through Covered California or Sutter Health Plus, or contact a local licensed insurance broker at no cost to help you find a plan that fits your needs. If you have questions, call our customer service team at (833) 980-4141 weekdays, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Yes, Sutter contracts with several Medicare Advantage plans across Northern California. To find a plan that includes your Sutter doctor:

1. Talk with a licensed insurance agent or broker. If you don’t have one, complete our form to have a local agent contact you. Agents can meet in person, by telephone or virtually.
2. Compare your plan options online. Sutter works with eHealth, a licensed insurance agency that can help you compare plans and enroll you in one that works for you.

For more general information, visit our website. You’ll find helpful resources about billing and insurance as well as videos, guides and FAQs. For specific healthcare cost information, check out our cost estimator tool, which estimates common doctor and outpatient services. If you need assistance, call our Cost Estimate Help Line at (866) 961-8566 or refer to our cost and quality FAQs for additional information.

If you’re a new Sutter patient, take the time to:

1. Schedule a new patient appointment with your primary care provider to establish a plan of care.
2.  Sign up for My Health Online (MHO), Sutter’s secure patient portal. With MHO, you can book appointments, message your care team, view test results and much more from your smartphone or online.

To transfer your medical records to Sutter, you'll need to contact your current doctor.