In a concerning turn of events, negotiations between Legacy Health and Regence insurance have hit a stalemate, raising the possibility of increased out-of-pocket costs for patients. Legacy Health, based in Portland, Oregon, informed KATU that no further meetings are currently scheduled with Regence, although they remain open to future discussions.

If an agreement is not reached by Sunday, individuals with appointments at Legacy Health hospitals or clinics may find themselves facing uncovered expenses, necessitating out-of-pocket payments. Regence has expressed its view that Legacy's reimbursement demands are unrealistic and excessively high.

Merrin Permut, a representative from Legacy Health, expressed deep regret at the impact this impasse is having on patients, acknowledging that they are caught in the middle. Permut clarified that the reimbursement negotiations between Regence and Legacy are separate from the costs ultimately passed on to Regence customers.

There is an option called continuity of care available for individuals seeking coverage. However, patients will need to contact their health insurance provider to determine if this option applies to them. Legacy Health urged those with appointments at their facilities to reach out to their insurance company for more information.

In response to the situation, Dean Johnson from Regence emphasized their commitment to affordable healthcare and expressed hope for a reasonable path towards an agreement that would keep Legacy Health in-network for their members. Johnson stated that Regence had offered reimbursement increases that met many of Legacy's demands but were rejected by Legacy's leadership. Ultimately, the decision to remain in-network for Regence members lies with Legacy's leadership.

Regence reassured its members that they are actively working to identify eligible patients who could continue receiving care at Legacy providers and facilities with in-network benefits for a limited period. Furthermore, Regence highlighted their extensive network of high-quality providers in the Portland metropolitan area and Clark County who are ready to support their members' healthcare needs if Legacy chooses to end their contract.

Regence stated that they are committed to reining in escalating healthcare costs, which entails negotiating in good faith. However, they maintain that they cannot yield to unreasonable provider reimbursement demands. Regence understands the real impact these negotiations have on people's lives and remains dedicated to ensuring affordable access to care for their members. They are prepared to assist members in navigating alternative care options should Legacy choose to leave their network.

As the negotiations between Legacy Health and Regence insurance have reached an impasse, the future of coverage for patients remains uncertain. Both parties have expressed their commitment to finding a resolution, but until an agreement is reached, patients are advised to stay in close contact with their insurance providers and Legacy Health for updates on their coverage status.