BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Lehigh Valley Health Network said Monday it plans to terminate its contracts with UnitedHealthcare, a move that would leave roughly 70,000 patients facing higher out-of-pocket costs beginning next year if no new agreement is reached.
The health system, part of Jefferson Health, said it has been in negotiations with UnitedHealthcare for more than two years but has been unable to reach terms on a new contract. In a letter sent Monday, LVHN notified the insurer of its intent to end the relationship.
“Like all health systems, we are facing significant headwinds as costs rise faster than reimbursement,” Mark Whalen, executive vice president and enterprise chief strategy and transformation officer for Jefferson Health, said in a statement. “Sustainable, fair payment is essential to maintaining access and quality for the communities we serve.”…