Aetna is bolstering its network in North Carolina ahead of its takeover of the state's health plan for public employees.
In a presentation to the State Health Plan Board on Feb. 23, Aetna North Carolina President Jim Bostian said the payer is "absolutely committed to enhancing our network, continuing to add providers on an ongoing basis, which is our standard practice," according to a news release from the state treasurer's office.
North Carolina State Treasurer Dale Folwell said on Jan. 4 the state intended to award Aetna the contract beginning in 2025, which Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina held for over 40 years. The plan serves 740,000 state employees and includes healthcare spending of more than $17.5 billion over five years.
Blue Cross North Carolina is challenging the state's decision in court, filing a petition in Durham County court and the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings Feb. 16, alleging the state used an arbitrary system to select the new contract administrator.
In his presentation to the board, Mr. Bostian said Aetna will keep the two current base and enhanced PPO plan options available to employees.
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