Blue Cross to terminate agreement with Fairview clinics
By Peter Ronza, Human Resources
For the last several months, Blue Cross and Fairview clinics have been in negotiations to renew their service contract. Unfortunately, Blue Cross and Fairview have not come to an agreement; therefore, Blue Cross is terminating its agreement with Fairview clinics with an effective date beginning Aug. 23, 2008. On this date, these providers will be considered out-of-network providers.
UST was informed of the situation last week. All employees who have utilized Fairview services in 2008 have received a letter from Blue Cross in regard to the situation. There are various impacts to employees who use Fairview clinics and hospitals:
- Fairview clinics and providers will go from being “in-network providers” to “out-of-network providers.” That means if you use any of these Fairview clinics and providers on or after Aug. 23, 2008, you will pay more for your care. The cost difference between “in-network” and “out-of-network” charges varies and will likely be significant for you.
- If you’re anticipating needing hospital service, you need to be aware that Fairview Health Services also has elected to terminate its hospital contract with Blue Cross as of Oct. 28, 2008. If you have a particular need, Blue Cross will help you transition your care to an alternative in-network provider. Simply call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card.
A list of the affected clinics can be found online at the Human Resources “Hot Topics” section.
UST will continue to monitor the situation and issue updates as they are issued by Blue Cross. Blue Cross and Fairview will continue to negotiate and may reach and agreement by Aug. 23; however, employees who utilize Fairview services are encouraged to plan for the event that the service contract may be terminated.
If you have questions, contact Blue Cross by phone, (651) 662-5004, or online at www.bluecrossmn.com, or call the UST Benefits Office, (651) 962-6497.
