News Summary
In a significant development for healthcare in Virginia, Bon Secours and Cigna have reached a multi-year agreement, which will keep over 30,000 Virginians in-network and prevent disruptions in care. The agreement was finalized just before a 24-hour deadline and covers various facilities across the Bon Secours network. This decision alleviates concerns regarding potential interruptions in healthcare access for those insured by Cigna.
Virginia Breathes a Sigh of Relief as Bon Secours and Cigna Strike a Deal
Richmond, Virginia – On April 1, a major health care development unfolded in Virginia as Bon Secours and Cigna reached a multi-year agreement to keep over 30,000 Virginians in-network. This arrangement puts an end to potential interruptions in care and avoids increased health care costs for many residents who rely on the services of Bon Secours.
Meeting Just in Time
The agreement came about after a tense series of negotiations that extended a critical 24-hour deadline. Thankfully, just as the clock was ticking down, the two parties managed to seal the deal, ensuring that patients can continue to access care without worrying about being forced outside their network.
What’s Included in the Agreement?
The terms cover a wide array of facilities and professionals from the Bon Secours network. This includes everything from Bon Secours hospitals, urgent care centers, ambulatory surgical centers, to doctors providing essential services. For Virginia citizens whose health insurance comes from Cigna, this arrangement is a huge relief.
Why Were Negotiations Tense?
The conflict primarily revolved around Cigna’s reimbursement rates. Bon Secours argued that these rates were falling significantly short of what constitutes fair market value and weren’t keeping up with inflation. To add to the complexity, Cigna claimed that Bon Secours was demanding a hefty 30% rate increase over five years. This disagreement turned into a worry for many patients who feared losing access to their trusted medical providers.
The Backstory
The dispute dates back to August 2024, leading to rising concerns among patients. A state law enacted earlier allows health care providers to continue treating patients for a minimum of 90 days after going out of an insurer’s network. Pregnant individuals are also granted access to postpartum care, while patients facing life-threatening conditions can receive care for up to 180 days following a provider’s exit from the network. This gives patients some peace of mind during uncertain times.
Bon Secours Hospitals Affected
Several Bon Secours hospitals will benefit from this new agreement, ensuring that community members can continue receiving care without disruption:
- Hampton Roads:
- Bon Secours – Mary Immaculate Hospital
- Bon Secours – Maryview Medical Center
- Bon Secours – Southampton Medical Center
- Bon Secours – Harbour View Medical Center
- Richmond:
- Bon Secours – Memorial Regional Medical Center
- Bon Secours – Rappahannock General Hospital
- Bon Secours – Richmond Community Hospital
- Bon Secours – St. Francis Medical Center
- Bon Secours – St. Mary’s Hospital
The Clock Was Ticking
It’s worth noting that the previous contract between these entities was set to expire on March 31, impacting four of Bon Secours’ five local hospitals. The fifth, Southside Medical Center, has been a part of the Bon Secours family since early 2020. Yet, despite the joyful news, details about the new contract’s duration and the exact terms of Cigna’s reimbursement remain somewhat murky.
A Thank You to the Community
As the dust settles, Bon Secours has expressed its gratitude to patients for their unwavering support throughout the negotiation process. For so many, having access to quality health care services is not just a necessity—it’s a lifeline. With this deal in place, Virginians can now breathe easier knowing that they have continued access to the providers they trust.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- 12 on Your Side
- Wikipedia: Health Insurance in the United States
- Virginia Mercury
- Google Search: Bon Secours Cigna Agreement
- WRIC
- Google Scholar: Healthcare Negotiations Cigna Bon Secours
- Richmond.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Health Care
- Daily Progress
- Google News: Bon Secours Cigna
