UPMC - HIGHMARK DIVORCE NEARING FINALITY

 

 vs 

 

The following facts are evident:

- UPMC has been clear as to their rationale for not extending their contract with Highmark.  By finalizing their purchase of West Penn Allegheny Health System, Highmark has become an integrated health care system.  This puts them in direct competition with UPMC.  Jeff Romoff, UPMC's leader, has publically stated that he understands and supports Highmark's decision to move forward and become an integrated healthcare system; however, he and his Board have chosen quite simply not to support their competition by not contracting with them.  It is just that simple and there is clear public record of their position on this matter.

-After June 30, 2012 Highmark commercial subscribers will not be able to utilize UPMC owned facilities and may not be able to see UPMC owned physicians.

-This will not affect children.

-Whether it will affect medicare participants reamins up in the air.

-UPMC has its own Health Plan and has contracts with 5 other major US healthcare carriers.  If being able to access UPMC hospitals is a priority for you and your family consider carefully your health care coverage option.

-Not surprisingly the rest of the country is watching with great interest as to how things unfold in western Pennsylvania.

-The real tragedy and sin is that Highmark and UPMC are not engaged in a serious and meaningful transition dialogue in a mutual attempt to minimize harm and disruption to patients.

 

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FOR HIGHMARK BCBS MEMBERS

Thank you for trusting your health care to our practice.  We value our relationship with you and want to make sure that you are not confused by some things you may have heard in the news or from other health care providers.

This practice is NOT owned by UPMC

We are not affected by the current contract dispute between Highmark and UPMC. As a Highmark member, you can continue to receive care at our office indefinitely since we will continue to be part of the Highmark network.

You also have access to UPMC hospitals now and at least through June 30, 2013.

If Highmark and UPMC are not able to reach a contract agreement, you can continue to receive care from our office.  And we will work with you to help you get quality hospital care, testing or other specialized care that you may need in the future.  That's our promise to you.

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to talk with us about this important issue.

You can also learn more at www.highmarkchoicematters.com