Confluence Health to No Longer be In-Network Provider for Blue Cross, Premera Insurance

Confluence Health announced its decision to not renew its current contract with Premera Insurance to ensure impacted patients receive a six months heads up to review insurance plans. Confluence will no longer be an in-network provider for patients with insurance plans administered by Premera, effective February 2022.

"We're responsible for providing care throughout this region to everyone who needs the care and that's regardless of their ability to pay, Premera was really not interested in offering something that would allow us to continue that vision and that mission of healthcare," said Dr. Doug Wilson, Confluence Health CEO-Elect.

Confluence Health and Premera engaged in several months of negotiations, however Confluence opted to not renew due to not being able accept the terms of Premera's agreement. According to a press release, Premera wasn't willing to pay a rate consistent with other commercial insurance payers.

"We have good, long standing relationships with a large number of other insurers so people do have options they might want to look into," said Dr. Wilson.

Patients under Premera, Lifewise, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Regence Blue Shield and Uniform Medical Plan will be affected by the non-renewal. Folks are advised to talk to employers if insurance is through employment or reach out to their insurance company to learn about the implications.

"Confluence is going to take care of anyone that shows up and walks through our doors with or without a contract or the support of insurers," said Andrew Canning, public information officer. "We are here for their care and that won't be interrupted."