BCBS responds to MCH claims [Odessa American, Texas]

May 1—Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas representatives responded to Medical Center Hospital reports of an approaching deadline of May 31 for the two entities to hammer out a deal that will keep MCH in network with the insurance provider.

In an email form BCBS of Texas Director of Communications James T. Campbell he acknowledged ongoing negotiations with MCH detailing "We are working closely with MCH leadership and hope to sign new contracts before June 1, 2023. While we value our relationship with MCH, it's also important that the contracts we agree to are fair for our members and the local businesses we serve."

Campbell said the hospital is asking for price increases that are not reflective of the current market. "MCH's rate demand is clearly not in the best interests of our members, Odessa businesses, and the communities we serve," Campbell detailed in the email. "As a customer-owned health insurance industry leader in Texas for more than 90 years, we have a duty to stand up for affordable care especially in a time when most businesses and our members are facing inflationary and recessionary pressures."

MCH officials have said the amount BCBS of Texas pays MCH is the lowest in the region but that they also hope negotiations are successful.

Campbell indicated that BCBS understands hospitals are facing labor, supply and other cost pressures. But the reality is that employers in the Midland-Odessa region and across Texas, are facing those same pressures in the form of depressed margins and heightened labor costs, Campbell's email detailed.

"We believe we have offered increases that are in line with what other provider partners receive for the same services. In doing so, it will help slow the rising cost of health care for our customers, but more importantly, our members," he said in the email.

Campbell said if the entities are unable to sign new contracts, MCH will leave these networks on June 1, 2023:

— Par Plan

— Blue Choice PPO

— Blue Essentials

— Blue Advantage HMO

Campbell wrote "if we can't reach an agreement, or if our members want to find another in-network hospital, we'll work with them to safely move their care."

Members can also visit:

— BCBSTX Provider Finder

— Register for or log in to Blue Access for Members

— Call the Customer Service number on their member ID card

Members also may qualify as a continuity-of-care patient. This means they may still be able to receive care at in-network rates at MCH even if it leaves the BCBSTX networks. They can find out if they are eligible by calling the Customer Service number on their member ID card for more information, Campbell said.

Campbell said in the case of a life-threatening illness or injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency facility right away. Emergency services for commercial networks are covered at the in-network benefit level.

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