Independence Blue Cross announced on April 30, 2008 that they have reached agreement in principle on the terms of new contracts with Hahnemann University Hospital and St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. Both hospitals are part of the Tenet Healthcare National Network of Hospitals.

Both hospitals have extended their current agreements with IBC while they define terms for new multi-year contracts. The parties will continue to work together to finalize details of the new contracts with a targeted effective date of July 1, 2008.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU AS AN EMPLOYEE?
Members of IBC will continue to have access to health care services offered at these two hospitals, their outpatient centers and employed physician practices.

By reaching this agreement it avoids a potentially disruptive contract termination for you and existing patients. The extension of the agreement means that Hahnemann University Hospital and St. Christopher’s Hospital will continue providing quality care to patients who are covered by Independence Blue Cross.

More importantly, IBC members will continue to have access to health care services offered at the two hospitals, their outpatient centers and employed physician practices.

WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?
Click here to view a copy of the recent press release.  An additional update will be forwarded to you when new contracts are finalized. If you have questions regarding this eCommunication, please contact your HR department or your dedicated BenefitsVIP team for assistance.