Phoenix Children’s Negotiating New Agreement with BlueCross BlueShield
As the end of the month approaches, patients insured by BlueCross BlueShield may face the risk of losing in-network insurance coverage at Phoenix Children’s healthcare providers. According to healthcare officials, Phoenix Children’s needs to negotiate a new agreement with BlueCross BlueShield by October 30, 2024. While emergency care services will not be impacted, other healthcare services may be affected if an agreement is not reached.
Phoenix Children’s stated online, “If an agreement is not reached by October 30, 2024, Phoenix Children’s will no longer be a contracted in-network provider with BlueCross BlueShield after such date.”
If the two parties fail to reach a deal, Phoenix Children’s hospitals, clinics, and urgent care locations would be considered out-of-network with BlueCross BlueShield starting October 31, 2024. This change could result in patients needing to pay more for healthcare services.
Despite this potential change, the healthcare provider emphasized that emergency care services will not be impacted, and patients can still receive emergency care at the ER for the same rates as in-network benefits. Patients in need of ongoing treatment for specific conditions may also qualify for “Continuity of Care” or “Transition of Care” in-network benefits.
Locations that would become out-of-network include Phoenix Children’s Hospital – Thomas Campus, Phoenix Children’s Hospital – Arrowhead Campus, Phoenix Children’s Medical Group, Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics, and Phoenix Children’s Urgent Care Centers.
Phoenix Children’s assured patients that they are working diligently with BlueCross BlueShield to reach an agreement and expressed hope that care would not be interrupted. They stated, “We greatly appreciate the trust you have shown by allowing us to care for you and your child, and we look forward to continuing to serve the needs of your family.”
For more information, BlueCross BlueShield customers can call the customer service number on the back of their insurance cards. Stay updated on the latest local breaking news by downloading the 12News app on your phone.
