The ongoing contract dispute between Baptist Health System’s parent company, Tenet Healthcare, and Cigna could have significant implications for patient care in Texas. Should an agreement not be reached by December 31, approximately 1.4 million families who utilize Tenet facilities may experience increased healthcare costs or disruptions.
Impact of the Contract Dispute on Patient Care
Bill Waechter, the market CEO for Baptist Health System, expressed concerns about losing in-network access. He noted that this loss could lead to financial hardship for many in the community. The urgency of this situation highlights the need for patients to be proactive about their healthcare plans.
Steps to Prepare for Potential Changes
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recommend several steps for those affected by the dispute:
- Confirm Your Coverage: Not all insurance plans may be affected. Patients should check with both Cigna and Baptist Health regarding their specific coverage.
- Inquire About Appointments: Patients should ask if their appointments will remain in-network or be considered out-of-network.
- Continuity-of-Care Policies: If ongoing treatment is involved, patients should ask their healthcare provider about eligibility for continued care under their current insurance.
Key Questions for Patients
During these confirmations, patients can pose specific questions such as:
- Is my doctor or location still in-network?
- Will my existing appointments remain in-network?
- Are there options for payment plans or financial assistance in case of increased premiums?
It is important to document all communications, noting the representative’s name and the date of the conversation for future reference.
Alternatives to Consider
If the dispute is protracted, patients may need to look into alternative healthcare options. They can explore other in-network providers that are accepting new patients.
Additionally, patients may consider changing their health insurance plans. This option can be facilitated through their employers or the marketplace. Those wishing to switch plans should speak with their HR department or a marketplace representative to understand eligibility for a special enrollment period.
Assistance Available from Baptist Health System
Baptist Health System is providing free counseling for individuals seeking support in enrolling in marketplace plans. Interested patients can reach out at 210-202-5849 for assistance.
The outcome of this contract dispute will be closely monitored as many Texas families await clarity on their healthcare coverage.
