UW Health Could Suddenly Be Out of Network for Anthem BCBS Customers

MADISON, Wis. – People with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance coverage could soon find their provider at UW Health out of network.

UW Health is currently in negotiations with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. The health care system sent notices to patients last week.

UW Health said Anthem BCBS has agreed to much higher reimbursement rates for other Wisconsin health systems, and what the insurer proposed for UW Health was below the rate of inflation. The system also claims BCBS wants the ability to unilaterally change payment terms without renegotiation.

An Anthem spokesperson said the insurer will continue to negotiate, but added UW Health’s requested rate increase is “excessive.”

The current deal expires April 1. If the two organizations don’t reach a deal before then, people with coverage through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will suddenly have UW Health be considered out of network.