Memorial Hermann and BCBSTX remain at odds, leaving patients out of network. A continuity of care option exists, but advocates say it can be complex.

HOUSTON — Negotiations between Memorial Hermann and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas remain stalled, leaving thousands of patients temporarily out of network as both sides work toward a new agreement.

Memorial Hermann said there are no new updates in the ongoing contract dispute, which has disrupted access to care for patients who rely on the health system, one of the largest in Southeast Texas.

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Patient advocate Bonnie Sheeren said the impact is significant, especially for those receiving specialized or ongoing treatment.

“That’s our burn center, that’s our level one trauma center, oh my gosh, this is not good,” Sheeren said.

According to Memorial Hermann’s website, patients affected by the dispute can apply for continued in-network coverage through a “continuity of care” request. The process allows certain patients — particularly those with serious or ongoing medical needs — to continue seeing their current providers for a limited time.

However, Sheeren warned that the process may be difficult to navigate without assistance.

“Patients are going to have to get help, they don’t know what an NPI number is, that’s national provider information code, right? They’re going to have to talk to their doctor or their doctor’s office to get that,” she said.

The continuity of care form requires information from both the patient and their healthcare provider, which can slow down the process. Sheeren recommends patients contact their doctor’s office, specifically a business manager, for help completing the form.

While forms can be mailed or faxed, Sheeren suggests submitting requests online through a patient portal for faster processing.

More urgent cases — such as patients in the third trimester of pregnancy or those undergoing active cancer treatment — may be prioritized for review.

Until a new agreement is reached, patients may need to seek care from in-network providers or navigate the continuity of care process to avoid disruptions.

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