Memorial, BlueCross still at odds; But hospital says patients won't pay more

Facing an Aug. 1 contract deadline, Memorial Health Care System and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee are still at odds on a new contract. But, regardless of the outcome, Memorial CEO Jim Hobson said patients with BlueCross coverage won't have to pay more. He said, "Because of our long-standing commitment to our patients and this community, we have put plans in place that allow BlueCross patients to continue their care with Memorial at no additional cost, regardless of the outcome of our negotiations." He said under Tennessee law, BlueCross will grant certain patients in-network benefits after the Aug. 1, 2012 termination date under Continuity of Care provisions.