We want to provide you with important updates regarding the ongoing contract negotiations between Anthem Blue Cross and Scripps Health as there is a lot of misinformation out today.
Here’s what you need to know:
Medicare Supplement Plans Are NOT Affected
If you have a Medicare Supplement plan, you can rest assured that these plans are not impacted by the current negotiations. This situation pertains solely to certain Anthem Blue Cross group and individual medical plans. Scripps is sending notifications to these Medicare members which is causing unneccesary concern. These emails should not have gone out to you if you are a Medicare Supplement member.
Blue Shield of California Members Are Not Impacted
For clients insured through Blue Shield of California, there is no impact. Members can continue using Scripps facilities and providers as usual. Anthem Blue Cross is a separate insurance company from Blue Shield of California in the state of California.
Anthem Blue Cross HMO Members and Primary Care Selection
Anthem Blue Cross HMO members can still select a Scripps Physicians Medical Group doctor as their primary care physician (PCP) we have been told. This provides options for HMO members who rely on Scripps doctors for their primary healthcare needs. I will update this if we find out this is not true though. These providers are listed on the Anthem Blue Cross website under "find care."
Continuity of Care for Ongoing Medical Needs
If you are an Anthem Blue Cross member currently receiving ongoing care with Scripps, you can contact Anthem Blue Cross Member Services to request continuity of care. This ensures that you can maintain your current appointments and treatments with Scripps providers during this transition period. Please know, this is approved on a case by case basis.
Negotiations Are Ongoing
Contract negotiations between Anthem Blue Cross and Scripps Health are still in progress. Based on our experience, we do believe an agreement will eventually be reached to bring Scripps back into Anthem Blue Cross’s network. However, the timeline for resolution remains uncertain and could take weeks or even months for this to happen.
Options for Group Clients
For our group health insurance clients who do not wish to wait for the negotiations to conclude, we can assist in transitioning your coverage to another insurance carrier effective February 1st or March 1st. Please contact us if this is something you would like to explore.
Options for Individual & Family Clients who do not have coverage through their employer
Contact Ben or Steve prior to the end of January to switch to Health Net or Blue Shield for Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal access. They can be reached at 760-436-5015 or ben@schulteinsurance.com or stephen@schulteinsurance.com.
More Information to Come
We expect additional updates in the coming week and will continue to monitor the situation closely. Our priority is to keep you informed and help you navigate any challenges this may present.
If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. We are here to assist you and ensure your healthcare needs are met during this time.