Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has issued a warning to its members that in-network access to Ascension Seton hospitals and clinics in the Austin area may be lost effective January 1, unless contract negotiations result in a successful agreement. This month, a notice was sent to certain policyholders that also pertains to Ascension Providence facilities in Waco.
“We are diligently striving to finalize an agreement; however, if we are unable to do so, Ascension hospitals will exit your network effective Jan. 1, 2026,” stated a postcard sent to members in Central Texas on Dec. 1.
The deadlock revolves around the insurer’s agreements with Ascension regarding hospitals and facilities. In the absence of a new contract, the affected patients would include individuals enrolled in commercial BCBSTX plans, Medicare Advantage plans offered by the insurer, and those participating in Affordable Care Act exchange plans…