Has anyone heard of anyone making a change to their health insurance plan at work outside open enrollment without a "qualifying event?" A qualifying event is defined as an event that would change your tax status, such as marriage, divorce, additional dependent (child), etc.

I was hospitalized about a month ago and need to seek more acute care. After an exhaustive search, I have found a doctor(s) who is a good fit. The problem is, that it is out-of-network. I would like to upgrade my health insurance plan at work which would partially cover this practitioner. I cannot seem to find anything on the internet where someone discusses their experience trying to upgrade their health insurance (for a good reason, but not according to the IRS).

Any input from personal experience would be greatly appreciated.