Cullman Regional Medical Center not cut from Blue Cross Blue Shield network

Aug. 02--CULLMAN -- Cullman Regional Medical Center is not discontinuing coverage with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama. An Anniston hospital's dispute with the regional insurance giant led to some confusion for Cullman residents in regards to future insurance coverage.

CRMC officials report many local businesses were concerned about coverage for their employees after receiving a letter regarding BlueCross and BlueShield of Alabama's discontinuation of coverage for Regional Medical Center in Anniston, also known as RMC.

CRMC interim CEO Cheryl Bailey released a statement clarifying the situation in an effort to ease concerns for locals confused by the situation.

"It appears that the name of the hospital caused some confusion for local businesses," Bailey stated. "However, we want to ease those concerns as CRMC is still very much a part of the BlueCross and BlueShield of Alabama Hospital Network."

Bailey noted CRMC is recognized as a Tier 1 provider in the network, and has been awarded the BlueCross and BlueShield Blue Distinction Award in Knee and Hip Replacement annually since 2010.

"CRMC is, and will continue to be, a part of the BlueCross and BlueShield of Alabama Hospital Network." Bailey stated. "In fact, BCBS of Alabama consists of 25 percent of the hospital inpatient and outpatient business."

According to BCBS of Alabama CRMC profile report, in 2013 CRMC completed 1,016 inpatient cases and 20,922 outpatient cases for individuals with BlueCross coverage.

Blue Cross released a press release earlier this week noting the Anniston hospital will be terminating its contract with the company effective Sept. 12. The hospital and insurance company are reportedly feuding over reimbursements and service payments.

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