Pennsylvania Attorney General Kathleen Kane has set up a toll-free helpline for consumers with questions or complaints related to the UPMC-Highmark split, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Pittsburgh-based UPMC and insurer Highmark terminated their long-term in-network relationship Jan. 1. UPMC decided not to negotiate a new contract after Highmark set up a competing provider network.
Ms. Kane said designated staff will act as an intermediary between consumers, UPMC and Highmark "to help consumers understand their rights and cut through confusion they have about their plans," according to the report. In the event consumers have a conflict with either entity, the attorney general's office will contact UPMC or Highmark on their behalf, depending on the nature of the conflict.
The helpline, which can be reached at 1-844-743-2015, will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.