PHOENIX — Patients insured by BlueCross BlueShield may be at risk of losing in-network insurance coverage at Phoenix Children's healthcare providers at the end of the month.
"Health systems like Phoenix Children’s periodically update agreements with health plans and we are currently in discussions with BlueCross BlueShield about a new agreement," Phoenix Children's said online. "Unfortunately, if an agreement is not reached by October 30, 2024, Phoenix Children’s will no longer be a contracted in-network provider with BlueCross BlueShield after such date."
If no deal is made, Phoenix Children's hospitals, clinics and urgent care locations would be considered out-of-network with the insurance provider starting Oct. 31, 2024. That means patients would likely have to pay more for healthcare services.
However, the healthcare provider stressed that emergency care would not be impacted by this change. Patients could still receive emergency care at the ER for the same rates as in-network benefits.
Patients in need of ongoing treatment for specific conditions may also qualify for "Continuity of Care" or "Transition of Care" in-network benefits.
Phoenix Children's released the following list of locations that would become out-of-network:
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital – Thomas Campus
- Phoenix Children’s Hospital – Arrowhead Campus
- Phoenix Children’s Medical Group
- Phoenix Children’s Pediatrics
- Phoenix Children’s Urgent Care Centers
The healthcare provider said that they would continue to work with BlueCross BlueShield to reach an agreement, and that they were hopeful care wouldn't be interrupted.
"We greatly appreciate the trust you have shown by allowing us to care for you and your child, and we look forward to continuing to serve the needs of your family," Phoenix Children's said.
12News has reached out to BlueCross BlueShield for comment.
BlueCross BlueShield customers can call the customer service number on the back of their insurance cards for more information.
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