Northwell Health, Cigna reach contract agreement
Cigna sent out letter to beneficiaries stating an end to in-network coverage for Northwell in New York.
Beneficiaries should ignore a letter sent by Cigna stating the end of its contract agreement with Northwell Health in New York, as the insurer and provider have reached an agreement, according to Northwell.
On November 30, Cigna preemptively notified its members that Northwell was leaving the Cigna hospital network.
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Many states require such letters when contracts fail to be reached within a specified time.
Northwell gave no indication of what was holding up a contract, but said on Thursday an agreement had been reached to continue the 20-year relationship.
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Northwell patients with Cigna insurance will continue to be in-network with the provider's 23 hospitals, 600 outpatient facilities, 15,000 physicians, laboratories, home health and other affiliated providers.
The agreement will continue without change through 2018.
Members and employers should disregard any communication from Cigna or others stating that Northwell providers will not participate with Cigna health plans.
"We regret any confusion or inconvenience caused by Cigna's letter," said Howard Gold, executive vice president, and chief managed care officer.
Twitter: @SusanJMorse
Email the writer: susan.morse@himssmedia.com
