Governor Corbett announced today an agreement by UPMC and Highmark to extend their current contract until the end of 2014, according to Senator Elder Vogel, Jr.
“This is great news for Western Pennsylvania. Many people were at risk of losing their doctor and the Legislature was prepared to act to protect the doctor-patient relationship. I applaud Governor Corbett, UPMC, and Highmark for stepping up and doing the right thing,” Vogel said.
Without a new agreement, Highmark’s 2 million members in Western Pennsylvania would pay higher out-of-network charges to go to UPMC’s hospitals and doctors. The current contract would have expired on June 30, 2013.
“When people are getting life saving treatment, the last thing on their minds is a contract dispute between their hospital and their insurance carrier. This agreement provides patients with piece of mind that they will continue getting the help they need. I hope that UPMC and Highmark will continue working together in the future,” Vogel added.
CONTACT: Joe Weidner
(724) 774-0444