HOUSTON \u2013 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.<\/p>\n
Memorial Hermann announced Saturday that the agreement is effective immediately and said it applies to BCBSTX Commercial and Blue Advantage Marketplace members.<\/p>\n
BCBSTX said it has \u201csigned new agreements\u201d with Memorial Hermann and that the deal \u201cprotects our members\u2019 access to quality care at cost-effective prices.\u201d<\/p>\n
What the agreement means for patients<\/p>\n
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 \u201ccontinuity of care\u201d options.<\/p>\n
In its statement, BCBSTX said all BCBSTX members will continue to have access to Memorial Hermann facilities and hospitals at in-network rates.<\/p>\n
Memorial Hermann said its facilities and affiliated physicians are in-network for covered plans under the new agreement.<\/p>\n
What you should do now<\/p>\n
If you have questions about your specific plan, both organizations recommend calling the number on the back of your member ID card.<\/p>\n
BCBSTX said members can also find more information at www.bcbstx.com\/memorialhermann<\/a>.<\/p>\n If you previously canceled an appointment during the dispute, Memorial Hermann advises contacting your care team to discuss rescheduling.<\/p>\n The two sides had been negotiating for months. Memorial Hermann previously said BCBSTX made \u201cunreasonable demands\u201d and warned a lapse could jeopardize continuity of care. BCBSTX said it was seeking an agreement that keeps care affordable for members.<\/p>\n