Fishersville, Va.-based Augusta Health and Augusta Medical Group reached a four-year agreement with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield after the provider left the insurer's network roughly six months ago.
Here are three things to know:
1. The new contract was effective July 1. Augusta Health's in-network contract with Anthem expired Dec. 31. In fall 2017, the hospital asked Anthem for an annual 7.5 percent increase; however, Anthem refused, according to The News Virginian.
2. While some 10,000 Anthem patients were able to continue receiving Augusta Health services at in-network prices during the six-month contract lapse, numerous patients had to travel elsewhere for procedures, operations and treatment. The News Virginian fielded letters to the editor from residents calling out Augusta Health and Anthem for the impasse.
3. "We extend our gratitude to our patients, local employers, and families for their understanding and encouragement throughout this challenging time," Augusta Health said in a July 2 statement. "Our goal has been to secure the future viability of Augusta Health for the community. To that end, significant progress was made toward that goal."
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