IMPORTANT:
The contract between Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and Hartford HealthCare has lapsed. The parties reached an impasse and have not renewed their contract. As a result, Hartford HealthCare facilities will be treated as out-of-network by Anthem, significantly increasing the cost for services at the following facilities, among others, if you are insured by Anthem:
- Hartford Hospital
- The Hospital of Central Connecticut in New Britain and Southington
- Midstate Medical Center in Meriden
- Backus Hospital in Norwich
- Windham Hospital in Willimantic
- Hartford HealthCare Medical Group
- Natchaug Hospital
- Rushford Center in MIddletown
- Southington Care Center
- VNA HealthCare in Wethersfield
- Some substance abuse centers and assisted living facilities
It is widely reported that the parties are working together with the aim of renewing their contract. Until that occurs, members insured by Anthem should assume that Hartford HealthCare facilities will be treated as out-of-network, costly, and to be avoided if at all possible.
To be certain, the following is from Hartford HealthCare's FAQs website:
Q: I am a State of Connecticut Employee. Am I impacted by the negotiations?
A: Hartford HealthCare’s contract is with Anthem, not the state. State of Connecticut Employees covered by an Anthem health plan may seek care at any Hartford HealthCare partner organization, but they will be billed at the Anthem out-of-network rate. There is no exception for state employees.
If you are impacted by this unfortunate situation, the best course of action is to monitor for developments at http://group.anthem.com/HHC or call the members services number on the back of your insurance card. Alternativley, you may call Anthem at 203-677-4000.
The following links provide valuable information for affected members: