HOUSTON – Memorial Hermann Health System and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) say they have reached a new agreement restoring in-network access, ending a contract dispute that left some patients facing higher costs and uncertainty about where they could receive care.
Memorial Hermann announced Saturday that the agreement is effective immediately and said it applies to BCBSTX Commercial and Blue Advantage Marketplace members.
BCBSTX said it has “signed new agreements” with Memorial Hermann and that the deal “protects our members’ access to quality care at cost-effective prices.”
What the agreement means for patients
The announcement comes after Memorial Hermann facilities and affiliated providers became out-of-network for many BCBSTX customers on April 1, prompting patients to re-check their benefits, consider switching doctors and, in some cases, seek “continuity of care” options.
In its statement, BCBSTX said all BCBSTX members will continue to have access to Memorial Hermann facilities and hospitals at in-network rates.
Memorial Hermann said its facilities and affiliated physicians are in-network for covered plans under the new agreement.
What you should do now
If you have questions about your specific plan, both organizations recommend calling the number on the back of your member ID card.
BCBSTX said members can also find more information at www.bcbstx.com/memorialhermann.
If you previously canceled an appointment during the dispute, Memorial Hermann advises contacting your care team to discuss rescheduling.
The two sides had been negotiating for months. Memorial Hermann previously said BCBSTX made “unreasonable demands” and warned a lapse could jeopardize continuity of care. BCBSTX said it was seeking an agreement that keeps care affordable for members.
A similar contract fight in 2022 was resolved after the deadline passed, with the organizations later announcing a multi-year agreement.
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