One Vermont-licensed carrier, Blue Cross Blue Shiled of Vermont, has recently removed the requirement that patients obtain referrals from their Primary Care Physicians (PCP’s) for the services of a specialist to be covered, provided each is contracted with the carrier and is in the carrier's medical network. This eliminates the major objection to Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans voiced by many Vermont subscribers. New members must still designate their PCP at the time of enrollment, but they are free to see their specialist physician(s) for health care expertise that is beyond the scope of their primary doctor.

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It should be noted that some very specialized practices will only accept referral appointments made by another physician to avoid unnecessary or inappropriate visits. Likewise, certain specialties, such as mental health and chiropractic, may have other limitations to reduce the number of non-medically necessary visits.