Bluecross BlueShield has informed its customers that negotiations with Christus Health Care are ongoing, but it’s unlikely they will finalize a contract by the deadline.
In Corpus Christi, Texas, Bluecross BlueShield may lose in-network access to physicians and facilities affiliated with Christus Health Care starting July 1.
The insurance company has posted updates on its website, indicating that both sides are working towards a new contract. However, if an agreement isn’t reached, customers will find themselves unable to access the services of Christus Spohn’s doctors, clinics, and hospitals.
- Blue choice posm
- Blue Essentialssm
- Blue Advantage hmosm
- Blue Cross Medicare Advantage (PPO) SM
- Blue Cross Medicare Advantage (HMO) SM
- Medicaid (some areas)
If anyone needs to find a doctor outside of the Christus Health System, they can do so on the insurance’s website or by calling the number on their insurance card.
3News reached out to Christus Health System for a statement, which highlighted their frustration:
“Despite extended negotiations, Texas Blue Cross Blue Shield has yet to seriously consider Christus Health’s request for a fair reimbursement rate to meet the rising costs of quality healthcare. The healthcare system is vital for the community it serves, and I’m hopeful BCBSTX feels the same,” they said.
Bluecross BlueShield also shared a statement about its position in the negotiations:
“For 95 years, as a leader in Texas’ customer-owned health insurance, we’ve advocated for affordable quality healthcare. It’s our responsibility to protect access to care at reasonable prices.”
Christus Spohn manages multiple clinics and hospitals in the coastal bend area, including Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline and Christus Spohn Hospital-South, along with other facilities in Corpus Christi, Beeville, Alice, and Kingsville.
If an agreement isn’t finalized by July 1, there are alternative options in Corpus Christi, including hospitals operated by HCA Healthcare, such as the Physicians’ Community Hospital and Bay Area Hospital.
This story is still developing, and 3News will provide updates as they become available.
