At a Glance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Texas and Ascension Texas struck a deal to keep many facilities in-network.
- The agreement avoids a Jan. 1 deadline that would have raised costs for BCBSTX members.
- Ascension CEO Jamie Youssef says the deal reaffirms their mission of dignity and compassion.
- Why it matters: Patients will keep access to quality care without higher costs.
On Wednesday, Blue Cross Blue Shield Texas and Ascension Texas announced an agreement that keeps numerous medical facilities in-network for BCBSTX customers, sidestepping a Jan. 1 deadline that could have increased patient costs.
Deal Details
The agreement lets both parties avoid a deadline that would have forced higher medical costs for patients of the faith-based provider insured through BCBSTX.
Ascension Texas CEO Jamie Youssef stated:
> “By securing fair and sustainable reimbursement, we are able to continue supporting our caregivers, strengthening our ministries, and providing high-quality, compassionate care across the communities we serve. We are grateful for the partnership and patience of those we serve as we navigated this important agreement.”
BCBSTX spokesperson stated:
> “The months of negotiation were active, and this agreement protects our members’ access to quality care offered by Ascension at cost-effective prices.”
Impact on Members
By staying in-network, BCBSTX members avoid higher out-of-pocket expenses that would have arisen if the facilities had gone out-of-network.
| Deadline | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Jan. 1 | Higher costs for BCBSTX members |
| Agreement | Facilities stay in-network, costs avoided |
Key Takeaways
- The deal keeps many Ascension facilities in-network for BCBSTX customers.
- It prevents a Jan. 1 deadline that would have increased patient costs.
- BCBSTX and Ascension reaffirm their commitment to compassionate care.
The partnership ensures patients continue to receive quality care without the burden of increased costs.
