Jefferson Health is now out-of-network for many patients with insurance from The Cigna Group after the two organizations failed to negotiate a new contract.
The change, which took effect Saturday, impacts Cigna commercial members at all Jefferson Health facilities, including Jefferson Bucks Hospital in Falls Township and numerous local medical practices.
“Despite our best efforts to reach a fair agreement, Jefferson Health, which operates Jefferson Bucks Hospital in Falls Township and a number of local medical practices, and Cigna have been unable to finalize a new contract,” the health system wrote on their website.
Jefferson Health, the Philadelphia-based health system operating more than two dozen hospitals and many practices throughout the region, had been part of Cigna’s network for more than 20 years.
Emergency care will remain in-network for all Cigna members regardless of the contract status.
Some patients may qualify for Transition of Care programs to maintain in-network benefits, but they are advised to check with Cigna.
Many Cigna plans also include out-of-network benefits that may allow continued access to Jefferson Health providers.
Jefferson Health cited “unsustainable” reimbursement rates from Cigna, stating that the insurer’s rates have increased less than hospital wages and other operating costs.
“Unfortunately, Jefferson Health chose to leave our network due to their unreasonable rate hike demands that would raise health care costs for the people we serve. Almost all our employer clients’ benefits plans are self-funded, which means any increase in cost of care is paid directly by local employers, their employees and their families. We will continue to negotiate with Jefferson Health to reach a fair agreement that will keep health care affordable for patients. Our customer service advocates are available 24/7/365 to ease the transition and guide patients to high-quality, local in-network care,” a Cigna spokesperson said.
The health system has encouraged Cigna members to contact Cigna directly to understand their coverage options and advocate for continued access to Jefferson Health providers.
Connecticut-based Cigna is one of the largest companies in the country and one of the largest insurers.
Advertisement
Convenient Legal Access to High Quality Cannabis Just A Few Minutes Away!
