Provider Directory Update
CareFirst is committed to supporting transparency and helping members make informed healthcare decisions. We are pleased to announce that the “Top Specialist” designation is now available in the CareFirst provider directory for practitioners in Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. Members can see which providers have this designation once they’ve logged into their CareFirst member portal.
This designation is applied to certain individual providers based on quality, appropriateness, and cost-efficiency criteria. These measures and methodologies are developed by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association using Axis Provider Insights data, along with CareFirst cost data for our local service area.
What this means for you:
- If you receive the Top Specialist designation, it will be displayed next to your name in the provider directory for eligible members.
- The designation recognizes providers who meet established standards for quality, appropriateness, and cost efficiency.
- If you do not see this designation, it may be because there is not enough data available for evaluation, you are a provider with one or more practice locations in Maryland, or your specialty is not currently included.
- There is no action required on your part at this time; evaluations are based on existing data sources.
What to expect:
- The designation is available for select specialties, including:
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Ophthalmology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Otolaryngology
- Pulmonology
- General Surgery
- Urology
- Providers must meet established quality and cost-efficiency criteria to receive the designation.
Important considerations:
- Providers with any practice location in Maryland are not eligible for this designation at this time due to state regulations.
- The designation is visible to Commercial members post-login with some exceptions.
This enhancement is part of our broader effort to improve the member experience while recognizing providers who deliver high-quality, efficient care.
If you have questions about the Top Specialist designation, please contact us at Provider_Designations@carefirst.com.
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to delivering quality care to our members.