March 9, 2023
We want to update you on our current negotiations with EvergreenHealth. As we mentioned previously, they gave notice to terminate our contract effective April 1, 2023. We’ve met multiple times for the past several weeks but have not yet come to an agreement on what is a reasonable, sustainable rate increase. We’ve asked them to rescind their termination notice to allow our members to continue with their providers at EvergreenHealth and they have refused. Despite EvergreenHealth’s decision, Premera is committed to reaching a multi-year contract that provides the people we serve with affordable, quality healthcare.
It’s important to know nearly two-thirds of claims paid by Premera to EvergreenHealth in 2021 were from self-funded accounts. Our role at the negotiations table is to serve as an advocate for our customers’ dollars. Through this lens, Premera cannot accept unreasonable rate requests. Along with a reasonable rate increase, we are committed to working with EvergreenHealth on realistic, practical solutions that drive down costs.
Member notifications were sent on March 1, 2023, as required by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Beginning April 1, all providers with EvergreenHealth will be out of network. These contract negotiations do not immediately affect EvergreenHealth hospital in Monroe. We will keep you updated through our Healthsource blog on our websites, which you can access through our banner alert:
Premera has been negotiating in good faith with EvergreenHealth for several months and we’ll continue to do so because our customers deserve an agreement that will preserve access to affordable, quality healthcare. We believe a solution can be reached that includes a reasonable rate increase and practical steps to drive down costs and ensure long-term financial success.