Contract Dispute Between UConn Health and Aetna Affects Thousands

Thousands are caught in a contract disagreement between UConn Health and Aetna, impacting many patients who hold Aetna insurance.

At present, UConn Health is deemed out-of-network for numerous Aetna members, creating a sense of frustration and uncertainty for around 15,000 patients.

Efforts to negotiate an agreement have stalled, leading to concerns among state lawmakers about the health implications for affected individuals. “They’re using patients as a bargaining football, and that’s absolutely wrong,” remarked Sen. Jeff Gordon (R-Woodstock).

As of Monday, many Aetna members find themselves without in-network options at UConn Health, prompting talks about the broader issues within the insurance industry. “What’s happening is that the insurance industry is very high-handed. If you don’t agree to our terms, we’re going to effectively eliminate the ability of our members to provide care,” stated Sen. Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor).

This impasse could lead to appointment cancellations, the need for new providers, or increased out-of-pocket costs for patients.

Aetna claims that UConn Health was asking for significantly higher reimbursement rates during negotiations, which could elevate costs for patients. They asserted, “Aetna has made a good faith effort to reach fair agreements that will help keep health insurance affordable for employers and members.”

UConn, on the other hand, argues that the reimbursement rates they receive from Aetna are considerably lower than those of other health systems in the state. They expressed hope that Aetna would re-engage with a fair offer soon to restore in-network access.

Despite the dispute, UConn noted that some patients could continue receiving care at in-network rates temporarily, and emergency services would always be covered in-network.

This kind of insurance conflict seems to be emerging more frequently across the state, prompting bipartisan calls for federal intervention. “We will continue to work to ensure that patients are protected in a state where people are fighting over money,” Anwar shared.

“We should take patients out of the negotiation, not hold them accountable, and not undermine their care in any way,” echoed Gordon.

One proposal among lawmakers suggests that patient care should automatically be rendered in-network until a deal is reached between an insurance company and a medical group.