Blue Cross Blue Shield of AZ forces Dignity Health out of network
Despite our best efforts, BCBSAZ is still unwilling to accept responsible contract terms.
As a result, beginning February 1, 2024, Dignity Health is no longer considered part of BCBSAZ’s networks in Maricopa and Pinal Counties for most BCBSAZ members.
It was never our intent to leave the BCBSAZ network, only to work together in good faith toward a balanced agreement. We submitted several proposals to BCBSAZ and they rejected each one. We also offered to extend the negotiation period an additional two weeks, however BCBSAZ rejected our extension offer, causing the existing agreement to terminate. To our great disappointment, BCBSAZ did not formally notify us of their decision to remove us from the network.
Fair contracts are essential for us to cover the normal increased cost of providing high-quality care.
As a result of historical inflation and other factors, operating costs have risen substantially which has created challenges for health care providers and not-for-profit health care organizations in Arizona and across the nation.
We do not underestimate our responsibility as one of the region’s highest-quality health care organizations to provide lifesaving care today and in the future. Patients are at the center of everything we do, and we recognize the inconvenience this situation creates.
Although our contract with BCBSAZ has termed, we are continuing to work in the best interests of our patients in hopes of reaching a new agreement with BCBSAZ.
Take action today to protect your healthcare access and choice:
Call BCBSAZ at the number on the back of your insurance card and urge them to work with Dignity Health facilities and providers in Maricopa and Pinal Counties on a new agreement.
Talk to your employer’s human resources or benefits team and urge them to contact BCBSAZ.