Mercy Health System has reached a new contract agreement with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, ensuring Anthem members will continue to have in-network access to Mercy services in Missouri. The multiyear agreement comes after months of negotiations, during which Mercy had warned that its contracts with Anthem would expire on Jan. 1, 2025, potentially moving their providers out of network for all Anthem plans.
Mercy cited rising costs of care and insufficient reimbursement rates from Anthem as the main points of contention, while Anthem accused Mercy of making drastic price demands. The new agreement includes continued access to affordable, high-quality care at all Mercy hospitals, outpatient care centers, and physician offices in Missouri for Anthem members.
The agreement also includes an uninterrupted in-network access for Healthy Blue Medicaid plans. Union representatives and Mercy officials expressed relief and satisfaction with the resolution, as it ensures stability and quality healthcare services for members and patients. With hundreds of thousands of Mercy patients with Anthem BCBS, the new agreement will have a positive impact on the community and ensure continued access to necessary healthcare services.
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