Which Arizona Hospitals Accept Which Insurance?
Hospital health services are among the most expensive treatments. Unless you need to go to a hospital for a timely emergency, it’s helpful to check if an Arizona hospital accepts your insurance plan before you go. Otherwise, out-of-pocket hospital costs could be as high as $7,500 for a broken leg or around $30,000 for a 3-day hospital stay.
This guide outlines which Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace and private health insurance plans are accepted by Arizona’s top hospitals in 2026 — including Mayo Clinic, Phoenix Children’s, HonorHealth and more.
Who This Guide Is For
This guide is designed for:
- Arizona families choosing a health insurance plan
- Individuals who want to keep a specific doctor or hospital in-network
- Self-employed individuals comparing ACA Marketplace vs private PPO options
- Anyone buying their own health insurance and trying to understand which plans work with different hospital systems
If you don’t have access to employer-sponsored coverage, choosing the right individual or family plan — especially one that works with your preferred hospital — becomes even more important.
It’s important to note: as of 2026, Banner|Aetna and BCBS Statewide PPO plans are no longer offered by the ACA Marketplace. If you need to transition to a new provider, see our Transition Guide in this blog.
We’ll also break down the difference between ACA Marketplace plans and private PPO plans, so you can make the best choice for your family.
Key Takeaways
The most important factor when choosing health insurance in Arizona is not just the monthly premium — it’s whether your plan gives you access to the doctors and hospitals you actually want to use.
- ACA Marketplace plans are health insurance plans offered by the federal government. There are specific open enrollment dates, from November 1 through January 15, as well as special enrollment opportunities for qualifying life events. These plans are often the best fit for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those who qualify for income-based subsidies, which can significantly reduce monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
- Private individual health insurance or family health insurance plans are typically accessed through a health insurance broker and offer more flexibility with provider networks and plan design. These plans may involve medical underwriting and are generally a better fit for individuals who are relatively healthy and looking for broader doctor access or more customizable coverage.
The right option often comes down to your income, health history and which doctors or hospitals you want access to — which is why comparing plans side-by-side is so important.
How to Choose the Right Plan for Your Hospital (Quick Guide)
If you’re trying to match your insurance with a specific hospital, here’s a simple way to narrow it down:
- Want access to Mayo Clinic? → You’ll need a private PPO plan
- Need Phoenix Children’s coverage? → ACA and private plans are both options
- Using HonorHealth doctors? → Check PCP vs specialist participation carefully
- On a budget and qualify for subsidies? → ACA Marketplace plans are typically best
- Want maximum flexibility and doctor choice? → Private PPO plans offer broader access
If you have further questions, you can
contact the Arizona health insurance experts at AZ Health Insurance Brokers for up-to-date information when you need it, at no cost to you. Call 602.617.4107 or email
info@azhealthinsurancebrokers.com.
What Are the Best Hospitals in Arizona?
In Arizona, different hospitals have different specialties. Some Arizona hospitals are nationally ranked in terms of their expertise and service, such as Mayo Clinic and Banner University Medical Center – Phoenix.
If quality of care is important in your health insurance plan decision, these hospitals are consistently ranked among the best hospitals in Arizona by U.S. News & World Report:
- Mayo Clinic: Not only is Mayo Clinic ranked number one out of Arizona hospitals, it’s also nationally ranked as one of the top hospitals in the country in specialties including cancer, diabetes, cardiology and lung surgery.
- Banner University Medical Center – Phoenix: Ranked number two by U.S. News & World Report for Arizona hospitals, Banner University Medical – Phoenix is a leader in specialties such as ear, nose, throat, geriatrics and neurology.
- HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center: HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center is ranked three by U.S. News & World Report among Arizona hospitals. It’s a general medical and surgical facility that specializes in areas such as colon cancer surgery and pulmonology.
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital: Phoenix Children’s Hospital is the number one ranked children’s hospital in Arizona and offers top pediatric care in the U.S., with nationally ranked pediatric cancer care, cardiology and other specialties.
- St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center: Home to Barrow Neurological Institute, ranked as the top neurosurgery residency program in the U.S. by the Doximity Residency Navigator, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, part of Dignity Health Medical Group Arizona, is also rated in areas including rehabilitation and urology.
Keep in mind that not all top hospitals accept every insurance plan, especially ACA Marketplace plans. Use this guide to match your health insurance with the hospital(s) you want access to.
Arizona residents often choose hospitals based on a combination of specialty care, location and whether their preferred insurance plan is accepted — which is why comparing hospital systems and insurance networks together is one of the most important steps when choosing a health plan.
| Hospital System | Top Specialty | Accepted ACA Plans | Accepts Private PPOs? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mayo Clinic | Complex Care (Cancer/Cardiology) | None | Yes (Choice Plus/PPO) |
| Phoenix Children’s | Pediatrics | Imperial, Antidote | Yes |
| HonorHealth | Ortho, Cancer, & Cardio | Ambetter, Cigna, Oscar | Yes |
| Banner Health | General & Statewide Access | Ambetter, BCBSAZ, UHC | Yes |
2026 Arizona Hospital-to-Plan "Cheat Sheet"
If you want access to these Top Arizona Facilities, here is the most direct path to the right insurance:
- Mayo Clinic (Phoenix/Scottsdale): You must choose a Private PPO plan (like UHC Choice Plus or Aetna Open Choice). ACA Marketplace plans are not accepted here in 2026.
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital: Both ACA Marketplace (Imperial, Antidote) and Private PPO plans are accepted.
- HonorHealth (Scottsdale/North Phoenix): Accepted by Ambetter, Cigna, and Oscar on the Marketplace. Critical Note: Specialists are in-network, but HonorHealth Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) are generally not participating in Marketplace plans this year .
- Banner Health (Statewide): Broadest acceptance including Ambetter, BCBSAZ, and UnitedHealthcare . Note that Banner|Aetna Marketplace plans ended for 2026.
- Dignity Health / Barrow Neurological: Accepts Cigna on the Marketplace. Coverage at Barrow can vary by individual doctor, so always verify the specific physician .
- Tucson Medical Center (TMC): The primary choice for Southern Arizona, accepting Ambetter, BCBSAZ, and Imperial .
Best Arizona Hospitals by Specialty (Quick Guide)
While rankings are helpful, most Arizona residents choose hospitals based on their specific healthcare needs and location. Here’s a simple way to think about which hospitals are best depending on your situation:
- Best for complex or specialized care: Mayo Clinic
- Best for pediatric care: Phoenix Children’s Hospital
- Best for Scottsdale and North Phoenix residents: HonorHealth
- Best for Tucson residents: Tucson Medical Center
- Best for broad statewide access: Banner Health
Choosing the right hospital is often the first step — the next step is making sure your health insurance plan gives you access to that facility.
Quick Tip: Start With Your Hospital First
If you have a specific hospital in mind (like Mayo Clinic or Phoenix Children’s), start by confirming which insurance plans they accept. This can quickly narrow down your options and help you avoid costly out-of-network bills.
What Arizona Hospital Contracts Changed in 2026?
In addition to Banner|Aetna exiting the ACA Marketplace, there’s also some contract news regarding various AZ hospitals and the insurance plans they accept. For example, with HonorHealth and Blue Cross Blue Shield, a new contract means patients with Blue Cross Blue Shield can continue to attend HonorHealth facilities for appointments and procedures.
Another major change to be aware of is that BCBSAZ Statewide PPO is no longer offered on the ACA Marketplace. If you have questions about your health insurance being accepted at HonorHealth or any other Arizona hospital, contact the AZ Health Insurance experts.
🏥Abrazo Health
Abrazo Health is one of the largest healthcare systems in Arizona. The network specializes in stroke and neurosciences, cardiovascular health, maternity services, minimally invasive surgery and complex spine and orthopedic procedures. The following are ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans accepted by Abrazo Health.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- Antidote
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Maricopa Focus
- Imperial
- Oscar
- UnitedHealthcare (UHC)
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Abrazo:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter,BCBS and UHC, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Barrow Neurological Institute
The Barrow Neurological Institute is attached to St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. It specializes in areas including neuro psychology, neurological disorders and neurological rehabilitation.
While Barrow Neurological Institute is contracted with Cigna through the ACA Marketplace, each department within Barrow Neurological Institute has different doctors, and those doctors each have different insurance contracts. It’s important to filter coverage by individual doctors at Barrow Neurological Institute.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Varies by doctor
- Cigna Connect
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Barrow:
ACA Marketplace plans through Cigna, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥 Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix (Part of Banner Health)
This flagship Banner Health facility is recognized for its academic medical center excellence and is affiliated with the University of Arizona College of Medicine. It’s ranked among the top hospitals in Arizona for specialties like cardiology and cancer care. The following are ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans accepted by Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Maricopa Focus
- BCBSAZ Neighborhood
- UHC
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Banner:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter, Oscar and UHC, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥 Banner Children’s (Part of Banner Health)
Banner Children’s is a leading pediatric hospital system in Arizona, specializing in care for infants, children and adolescents. Known for its pediatric emergency services, neonatal intensive care (NICU) and specialty programs in areas like pediatric cardiology and orthopedics, Banner Children’s is a trusted option for families across the Phoenix metro area. Because pediatric care often requires ongoing specialist visits, it’s especially important to verify that your child’s doctors and facilities are in-network when choosing a plan. The following are ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans accepted by Banner Children’s.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Maricopa Focus
- Imperial
- Oscar
- UHC
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Banner Children’s:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter, Imperial and Oscar, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Carondelet Health Network
The Carondelet Health Network is located in southern Arizona and provides high-quality 24/7 emergency care. The Carondelet Health Network accepts the following ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- Antidote
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Pima Focus
- Imperial
- Oscar
- UHC
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Carondelet:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter and BCBS, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Dignity Health Medical Group Arizona
Dignity Health Medical Group Arizona specializes in areas including bariatrics, orthopedics and cardiology. Dignity Health Medical Group Arizona accepts the following ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for HonorHealth:
ACA Marketplace plans through Cigna, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥HonorHealth
HonorHealth is a top-rated health system in the Scottsdale and North Phoenix region, frequently recognized for its excellence in orthopedic surgery, cancer treatment and cardiovascular care. With 6 hospitals and more than 2,000 doctors, it's a popular choice for local families. HonorHealth accepts the following marketplace and private health insurance plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- Cigna Connect Individual and Family plans
- All HonorHealth hospitals, facilities urgent care locations and HonorHealth Medical Group specialists participate
- HonorHealth primary care physicians (PCPs) don’t participate
- Oscar
Private Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO Network
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for HonorHealth:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter and Oscar, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥 Mayo Clinic Arizona
Mayo Clinic in Phoenix is consistently ranked as the #1 hospital in Arizona and among the top in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Known for handling complex cases, it offers cutting-edge treatments backed by research.
Mayo Clinic does not accept any ACA Marketplace plans. The key to getting admitted into Mayo Clinic to see a specialist is to have a private healthcare plan, such as UHC Choice Plus or Aetna Open Choice. While these plans may be more expensive compared to an ACA plan, they can help you see the most highly regarded doctors in Arizona when you need to. If you’re relatively healthy, you can save more on private plans.
It’s important to review plan details carefully, as access to Mayo Clinic can vary depending on the specific PPO network. Mayo Clinic is very selective with the plans it accepts, so it’s important to verify eligibility before enrolling in a private PPO.
- BCBS of NE
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- UHC Choice Plus PPO Network
Common plans used for Mayo Clinic access:
Private PPO plans such as UHC Choice Plus, Aetna Open Choice, and select BCBS PPO options.
🏥Northern Arizona Healthcare
Northern Arizona Healthcare providers include Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC), Verde Valley Medical Center (VVMC), Northern Arizona Healthcare Orthopedic Surgery Center (NAHOSC) and Northern Arizona Healthcare Medical Group (NAHMG). Northern Arizona Healthcare accepts the following ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- BCBSAZ
Private Plans
- BCBS of NE
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- UHC Choice Plus PPO Network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
🏥 Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Phoenix Children’s Hospital is consistently ranked as one of the best pediatric hospitals in the nation, offering specialized care in fields like pediatric cardiology, oncology and neurology. It’s a top-tier choice for families across Arizona. Phoenix Children’s Hospital accepts the following ACA Marketplace and private healthcare plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Antidote
- Imperial
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Phoenix Children’s:
ACA Marketplace plans like Imperial and Antidote, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Summit Healthcare
Summit Healthcare is located in Show Low, Arizona, and has an expert Bone & Joint Center featuring top orthopedic and podiatry specialists. Summit Healthcare accepts the following ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- BCBSAZ Neighborhood Network
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Summit:
ACA Marketplace plans through BCBS, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Tucson Medical Center
Tucson Medical Center is one of the largest and most respected healthcare providers in southern Arizona, serving the Tucson community with a wide range of services including emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics and maternity services. TMC is known for its patient-centered approach and strong regional network of physicians and specialists. For individuals and families in Tucson and surrounding areas, choosing a plan that includes TMC can be an important factor when comparing ACA Marketplace and private health insurance options. The following are ACA Marketplace and private health insurance plans accepted by Tucson Medical Center.
ACA Marketplace Plans
- Ambetter
- Antidote
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Pima Focus
- Imperial
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for TMC:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter, BCBS and Oscar, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
🏥Valleywise Health
Valleywise Health is Phoenix’s public teaching health system, with one of the country’s top burn and trauma centers. Valleywise Health accepts the following marketplace and private health insurance plans.
- Ambetter
- Antidote
- BCBSAZ ACA Health Choice
- BCBSAZ Maricopa Focus
- UHC
Private Insurance Plans
- BCBS of NE
- UHC Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna or Aetna’s PPO network
- Private Healthcare Systems (PHCS) and MultiPlan PPO network
Common plans used for Valleywise:
ACA Marketplace plans like Ambetter, BCBS and UHC, along with private PPO options depending on provider preferences.
Quick Tip: Always Double-Check Your Doctor
Even if a hospital accepts your insurance, not every doctor or specialist within that hospital may be in-network. Always confirm both the facility and the specific provider when choosing a plan — this is one of the most common reasons people end up with unexpected out-of-network costs.
Transition Guide for Switching ACA Marketplace Insurance
Whether you’ve lost ACA Marketplace coverage due to the Banner|Aetna or BCBS Statewide PPO ACA exit, or you’re not satisfied with your current coverage on an ACA plan, here are some things to keep in mind for switching ACA coverage.
- Open enrollment is between November 1 through January 15. ACA open enrollment allows you to switch plans, regardless of your health or life situation. Anyone can sign up for a new plan or switch ACA plans during this time.
- What if you miss open enrollment? If you missed open enrollment and no longer have ACA health insurance because of the Banner|Aetna or BCBS Statewide PPO exit, you still have options. You can talk with a private insurance broker to get health insurance at any time of year, so you have coverage before the next open enrollment period.
- You may qualify for a special enrollment period. Life changes such as moving, divorce, marriage and losing health insurance through work could qualify you to enroll in ACA Marketplace health insurance outside of open enrollment. Talk with an ACA insurance expert to see if you qualify.
The cost of not having health insurance at all is high, because without it, you may have to pay tens of thousands of dollars or more for emergency coverage or a condition such as cancer. Secure insurance right away so you’re protected for whatever may come.
Need Help Choosing an Arizona Health Insurance Plan That Covers Your Hospital?
If you already have a hospital in mind, we can help you quickly identify which plans give you access — and which ones to avoid.
At AZ Health Insurance Brokers, we help you:
- Match your insurance plan to your preferred hospital and doctors
- Compare ACA Marketplace and private PPO options side-by-side
- Understand your true total costs (not just monthly premiums)
- Check eligibility for subsidies or cost-saving options
Whether you’re looking for individual coverage, family coverage or group health insurance for your Arizona business, we’ll guide you to the best fit.
📞 Call us at 602.617.4107, email
quotes@azhealthinsurancebrokers.com, or
contact us online. We’re here to help you get the coverage you need, with access to the hospitals you trust.
Arizona Hospitals & Insurance Coverage FAQs
How do I know which Arizona hospitals accept my insurance?
Use our online resource of accepted insurances at major Arizona hospital networks. Or, contact the hospital to inquire directly before making an appointment.
What are the most popular health insurers in Arizona?
The most popular health insurers in Arizona include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), Banner | Aetna, Cigna HealthCare of Arizona and UnitedHealthcare. Many Arizona hospitals accept the biggest health insurers in Arizona, but they may not accept them all. For example, HonorHealth no longer accepts UnitedHealthcare through the ACA Marketplace.
Does Mayo Clinic Arizona accept ACA Marketplace insurance in 2026?
No. Mayo Clinic Arizona does not accept ACA Marketplace health plans, such as those purchased through Healthcare.gov (e.g., Ambetter, Blue Cross Blue Shield, or UnitedHealthcare Marketplace plans).
What hospital treatments does insurance cover in Arizona?
Most hospital treatments are eligible for insurance coverage in Arizona. These include inpatient and outpatient hospital care, emergency services, hospitalization, surgery and mental health care in hospitals. Check that a hospital offers insurance coverage for your insurer before you schedule treatment, if possible.
Do I have to pay for emergency services at a hospital that doesn’t accept my insurance?
While in most cases you can’t be denied emergency care if you don’t have insurance that’s covered by a hospital, you may be obligated to pay back what you owe. That’s why it’s always in your best interest to check about hospital coverage before ground ambulance transportation.
Can you get hospital treatment if you’re not covered?
The federal No Surprises Act protects people from unexpected charges for most out-of-network care, including air ambulances and emergency room services. However, out-of-network ground ambulance transportation is typically not covered or protected by the law.
Can I use ACA insurance at a hospital?
Yes, most hospitals in Arizona accept some forms of ACA Marketplace health insurance coverage. The only hospital that doesn’t in 2026 is Mayo Clinic. Be aware that not all hospitals accept all ACA coverage. Check with the hospital before you schedule services there.
How can I get health insurance for the hospital I want to go to?
If you qualify for open enrollment or a special enrollment period, and your preferred hospital accepts ACA coverage, you can sign up for insurance through the ACA Marketplace.
If you need insurance on a private plan, you can contact a private health insurance broker to get insurance any time of year.
What’s the best hospital in Arizona?
In national rankings, Mayo Clinic tends to rank as the top hospital in Arizona, especially for specializations including diabetes, cancer, pulmonology, lung surgery, ear, nose and throat.
What’s the best children’s hospital in Arizona?
Phoenix Children’s Hospital has consistently been ranked as the top hospital for pediatric care over the years. Phoenix Children’s Hospital specializes in areas including cardiology, neurology and oncology.
What is the biggest hospital in Arizona?
The largest hospital in Arizona is Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, which has more than 750 hospital beds.
Written by: Nicki Escudero
Nicki is a specialized healthcare content creator focused on navigating the evolving Arizona insurance landscape. She works closely with licensed brokers to translate complex 2026 ACA and private market trends. Her work ensures that Arizona residents understand how to keep their preferred hospital systems, like Mayo Clinic and HonorHealth, in-network.
Reviewed by: Ethan J. Pickner, Licensed Arizona Health Insurance Broker
Ethan is the founder of AZ Health Insurance Brokers and has been a licensed health insurance expert for nearly 12 years. He specializes in helping self-employed individuals and business owners navigate the complexities of the Arizona market to find high-value, cost-effective coverage. Since 2014, Ethan has helped thousands of Arizona residents seamlessly navigate major plan transitions and life events, ensuring they maintain access to top-tier facilities like Mayo Clinic and Phoenix Children’s Hospital while securing the best possible rates in Maricopa County and throughout the state.
