The organizations reached a contract impasse in May over reimbursement rates and have been unable to negotiate a new contract since. As a result, Renown patients with UnitedHealthcare insurance may face higher out-of-pocket costs to access care and services at Renown.
In a statement to News 4, UnitedHealthcare called Renown “the most expensive health system in the Reno area.” The insurer said Renown is requesting a nearly 16 percent increase in reimbursement “that will drive up the cost of health care for the members and customers we serve.” UnitedHealthcare also accused Renown of “introducing new demands less than two weeks before the contract’s termination date” after the two had reached an agreement on rates.
“United’s claims that Renown is demanding a 16 percent increase are false,” Renown said in an emailed statement to Becker’s. “We are asking for a nominal, single digit increase over the life of the contract to make health, and healthcare more accessible and affordable. Unfortunately, a new agreement has not been reached and all impacted contracts with United remain terminated.”
The change affects all Renown services for members of UnitedHealthcare and its subsidiaries, Health Plan of Nevada and Sierra Health and Life.
Editor’s note: This article was updated June 7 to include a revised statement from Renown.
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