New Agreement Restores In-Network Access to Adventist Health Hospitals for Blue Shield Members
27 December 2023 |
Blue Shield of California and Adventist Health have announced a significant new agreement that reinstates in-network access for Blue Shield members to all 18 Adventist Health hospitals across California, according to an Adventist Health announcement released December 21. This resolution comes after a brief disruption in service earlier this month due to disagreements over reimbursement rates.
Aliza Arjoyan, Blue Shield’s Senior Vice President of Provider Partnerships and Network Management, emphasized the health plan’s mission-driven approach, saying, “Our goal is for our members to have access to quality care that’s sustainably affordable.” She added that Adventist Health has been a key part of their provider network for years and expressed eagerness for continued collaboration.
Kerry L. Heinrich, President and CEO of Adventist Health, also expressed contentment with the renewed partnership, underscoring their mission to offer high-quality care in local communities. “We are excited to continue caring for Blue Shield members,” Heinrich stated.
The decision impacts hospitals in key areas, including Mendocino and San Joaquin counties. It follows a contentious period in early December when Adventist Health withdrew from the Blue Shield network, citing 11 months of unsuccessful negotiations over reimbursement rates. Blue Shield had reportedly reached its limit on payment rates, leading to a temporary impasse.
The terms of the new agreement were not disclosed, but the resolution is a relief for both organizations and the communities they serve. This agreement marks a significant step towards ensuring continuous healthcare access for millions of Californians, many of whom felt they would have to pay more for care if the two organizations remained at an impasse.
Blue Shield of California, a nonprofit member of the Blue Shield Association, serves over 4.8 million members and maintains a network with approximately 350 hospitals and more than 122,000 providers across the state.
Adventist Health operates in more than 90 communities on the West Coast and Hawaii. With over 400 sites of care, including 26 acute care facilities, Adventist Health is dedicated to providing patient-centered, quality care, inspired by its heritage and values.
