Phoenix Children's patients will be out of network with Aetna after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement by their Aug. 6 deadline.
"We will continue to work diligently with Aetna to reach an agreement that addresses the significant number of routine denials and one that supports the expanded, expert care we provide to children and their families throughout our community," Phoenix Children's said in an Aug. 7 news release.
Aetna, meanwhile, told news station KTVK in a statement that it will continue to negotiate with the hospital but has been "unable to reach a new agreement due to their unreasonable and excessive rate increase demands."
The payer said Phoenix Children's is obligated to honor the current in-network rates for 180 days following the termination or until the member's employer coverage renews, whichever comes first.