Northern Light Health and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield agreed to extend their existing contract by 30 days as both parties continue working toward a long-term agreement, according to a joint statement issued Wednesday afternoon.
As a result of the extension, Northern Light physicians and medical providers, including primary care and specialists, will remain in-network with Anthem employer-sponsored and individual health plans through Oct. 31, rather than Oct. 1 as originally intended.
Northern Light inpatient care and services from hospital outpatient departments will stay in-network with Anthem employer-sponsored and individual plans through Dec. 31.
And all Northern Light hospitals and physicians will remain in-network for Anthem Medicare Advantage plans through Dec. 31.
Both parties said they would explore the possibility for their new contracts to have consistent start and end dates, to help ensure clarity for their customers.
The deal came after the mediation process between the two organizations broke down last week, with the organizations issuing separate accusatory statements.
And the mediation process began after contract negotiations broke down in mid-August.
The original breakdown would have left Anthem customers without Northern Light coverage for physicians and ancillary services, effective Oct. 1.