Plain version: you can choose an in-network hospital, but you rarely choose the anesthesiologist or radiologist who treats you there. California keeps that person's network status from becoming your problem.

The rule (Ins. Code §10112.8(a)): an insured who receives covered services at a contracting facility from a noncontracting individual health professional pays no more than the same cost sharing as with a contracting professional, and the professional may not bill more. This section does not apply to emergency services and care.

The narrow exception (§10112.8(c)): out-of-network cost sharing is possible only if the insured's policy includes out-of-network benefits and the insured gives written consent at least 24 hours before the care. The consent must be a separate document obtained by the professional, not the facility, with a written cost estimate, and it may not be obtained at admission or while the insured is being prepared for surgery or another procedure. If the policy has no out-of-network benefits, a signed form cannot move the insured out of in-network cost sharing.

Continuity of care (Ins. Code §10133.56): when an insurer that uses alternative-rate contracts ends its contract with a provider, it must, at the insured's request, arrange for that provider to complete certain covered services. One listed case is a surgery or other procedure recommended and documented to occur within 180 days of the contract's termination date. The insurer may require the provider to accept the same contract terms.