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Comment by knodi123 | Hacker News Reader

I've dealt with ghost networks too, with BCBS of CA. They provide you a directory with a thousand options, and I was already planning to go with the first provider that would have me. Had to call 15 before I got one that wasn't out of business, not accepting new patients, or not actually accepting the provider that gave me their number. So I can only assume that roughly 6% of their providers are actually real.

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I assume BCBS is Blue Cross Blue Shield; which is one of the largest insurers.

Can I ask how big is the city you live in (or near)? It seems like big cities have options, but small towns starve for medical help.

It's a capital city. In the end, there were options. Their directory had 200 providers, so even with that dismal accuracy, I bet could even find another provider if I didn't like my current one. I'm just providing supporting anecdata about how provider directories are vastly inflated with unusable results.

Had a similar problem with Aetna in NJ. I thought my situation was unique

There is definitely a need for provider matching services. This could be something a YC startup could and should take on. Honestly, I was a bit hesitant to think AI could help but now I think it's a needed way forward. That and insurers need to be held to account.

I wouldn't assume based on your sample. Most people start at the top so more of those would be filled. Businesses that add AAA to their name to appear at the top of the yellow pages are more likely to close.

It's not a phone book. The search results were based on distance from my exact address.

Your location is not random.

what a bizarre statement. You're right. My location is also not alphabetical.

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