As of Monday morning, UNC Health and Cigna have yet to finalize an agreement, which means that Cigna subscribers may soon face “out-of-network” expenses for services from UNC providers and hospitals.
A notice on UNC Health’s website informs customers that, starting December 1, “UNC Health will be out of network with Cigna.”
Last week, officials from UNC Health communicated to WRAL that they are still trying to negotiate a fair deal with Cigna before the Sunday deadline.
“Unfortunately, progress has been tough,” stated UNC Health. “As of December 1, it’s looking increasingly likely that UNC Health hospitals, clinics, and providers will no longer be in-network for Cigna members. This will lead to higher costs and disruptions for Cigna patients.”
WRAL first reported on these negotiations earlier this year. In July, UNC Health mentioned to WRAL, “Sadly, Cigna is not engaging in meaningful discussions or showing a commitment to patient care as we require.”
“We have been negotiating for a new contract with Cigna that aligns with our other insurance partnerships and maintains the quality of care our patients deserve, and that remains our focus.”
In an email inquiry about the negotiations’ status, Cigna responded, stating, “We are negotiating in good faith with UNC Health to reach a fair and reasonable agreement for everyone involved.”
UNC Health informed about 65,000 Cigna members via letter about the impending changes. The letter emphasized that UNC Health is “dedicated to continuing negotiations and hopes Cigna will collaborate with us to reach a patient-centered agreement.”
UNC Health is encouraging patients to explore other insurance options or to reach out to Cigna, whose contact information is available on the back of their membership ID cards.
WRAL has received feedback from viewers regarding how this situation will impact them. One anonymous individual shared that he attends occupational therapy once or twice weekly, paying a $25 co-pay, which is set to escalate to $468. His doctor’s visits will also rise from $30 to $165. Patients noted that their doctors preemptively contacted them to cancel appointments or alert them about rising costs.
UNC Health mentioned that “certain patients might qualify for ‘continuation of care’ through Cigna for a limited duration, especially those who are hospitalized, pregnant, or undergoing active treatment before December 1.” However, these patients must directly reach out to Cigna to determine eligibility and complete the necessary forms.
“We understand that this situation is unsettling and challenging for patients. We will keep working closely with them to minimize any disruption to their care.”
