FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — By January 1, 2025, Parkview Health will no longer accept patients whose insurance is considered out-of-network.
Parkview Health said the measure is aimed at “protecting patients” from high bills for receiving care at facilities that are not covered by insurance.
“When health insurance companies and employers set up health plans, they choose which health care providers and facilities are considered in-network,” said Parkview Health Payers, Employers, and Health Plans. David Jeans, senior vice president of strategy, said in a statement. “We recognize that patients may not necessarily understand which providers and benefits are covered under their plan, which can lead to confusion when they receive a bill for out-of-network care. It often happens.”
The changes will take place in three phases starting May 1.
- May 1, 2024 – Parkview Health will cease ancillary services such as lab tests and diagnostic imaging, as well as scheduling elective or planned surgeries for out-of-network patients.
- July 1, 2024 – Parkview Physicians Group will cease accepting new patients. Patients who have not previously seen Parkview Health are considered new.
- January 1, 2025 – Parkview Physicians Group will only book appointments for patients with insurance, including Parkview Health.
“We encourage all patients to make informed decisions about their care, including choosing the health plan that best meets their needs,” Jeans said.
The changes will affect about 1% of Parkview Health patients and will not affect uninsured patients or patients who require emergency care, according to Parkview Health.
Parkview Health has begun sending letters to people who may be out-of-network patients based on hospital records.
