"On December 31, 2013, our contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) will automatically expire, unless a new agreement is reached before that time. If a new agreement is not reached, then as of January 1, 2014, our facilities will no longer be part of the BCBSTX provider network. Emergency care, of course, is always available regardless of insurance plans. In the meantime, we are negotiating in good faith and continuing to provide the same quality care we are known for to our community.
In regard to the statement in their news release that claims HCA is requesting a reimbursement rate that is four times the current rate of inflation and that would add about $100 million in costs to Texas policyholders covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield health plans:
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That number is totally inaccurate, but we don't intend to negotiate publicly.
We are seeking a fair agreement that allows us to continue to provide quality care to patients and families who have come to depend upon Methodist Healthcare as the largest and most preferred health care provider in South Texas. The reasonable rates we proposed are similar to those Blue Cross Blue Shield are already paying to other Texas hospitals."