Carolinas HealthCare System, based in Charlotte, N.C., and UnitedHealthcare have been providing conflicting information since the contract between the two parties expired at the end of February, according to a Charlotte Observer report.
After UnitedHealthcare and Carolinas HealthCare failed to enter into a new contract, the health insurer began telling its members they will be considered out-of-network at Carolinas HealthCare hospitals and would begin paying more to use those facilities.
However, Carolinas HealthCare provided different information. A system spokeswoman told the Charlotte Observer that Carolinas HealthCare decided to extend temporary waivers to UnitedHealthcare members so they will be billed as though they were in-network. The system also released a list of scenarios in which patients will be considered in-network, according to the report.
Carolinas HealthCare and UnitedHealthcare are still engaged in negotiations and are trying to reach a new agreement.
More articles on healthcare finance:
Geisinger admissions rise, net income falls
Moody's to join EMMA later this year
CMS launches network to facilitate Medicare payment overhaul