Tulsa, Okla.-based Hillcrest HealthCare System is no longer in network with Aetna as of Nov. 1.
Hillcrest and Aetna have been unable to reach a new agreement, according to the health system. Hillcrest said the update affects roughly 15,000 people with Aetna employer-sponsored commercial or Medicare Advantage coverage.
Medicaid members through Aetna Better Health are unaffected, and emergency care remains covered, according to Hillcrest. Some patients may be eligible for continuity of care.
“Hillcrest continues to actively work toward a resolution that ensures patients can access high-quality care close to home,” a Nov. 2 statement from Hillcrest said. “Aetna leadership has refused to engage with our leadership, despite multiple outreaches over the past six months. Significant issues remain unresolved. Aetna’s below-market rates and payment practices put added pressure on healthcare delivery in Oklahoma.”
Hillcrest and Aetna both told Becker’s they are still open to negotiations.
“Hillcrest HealthCare System chose to terminate the Aetna agreement,” a Nov. 2 Aetna statement said. “We have engaged with Hillcrest HealthCare System leaders in good faith and offered them fair rate terms but we remain far apart on terms because Hillcrest HealthCare System is asking for price increases that would raise the costs paid by our members and health plan sponsors significantly.”
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