I also have united and have never been asked for a referral for anything. If the doctors office is telling you you need one, tell them your insurance doesn't require it and to book you anyway.

Try dr. reczek's office in concord. My stepfather was able to get an apt with her in 3w, others in her office might have shorter wait times. Can order mri etc through mgb system. Step-dad went for an urgent on in Chelmsford within 2 days.

Glad you're doing okay, hope you figure this out soon, and sorry you've gotten such a runaround!

Its actually quite dependent on your insurance. For me, I pay the same for in and out of network for the most part (100% for the first 3k, then 10% up to 5.5k, after that in network is no charge, out is still 10%).