Erie OB/GYN practice, Highmark contract dispute could affect patients – Erie Times-News

One of Erie largest medical practices is once again battling publicly with Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield over a new provider agreement.
OB/GYN Associates of Erie recently sent letters to thousands of its patients, informing them that the practice’s agreement with Highmark is “set to terminate” May 15 unless a new one can be reached.
Highmark issued a news release stating OB/GYN Associates had “requested to terminate all of its contracts” with the health insurer as of May 15.
Provider agreements determine how much a medical office or hospital receives from a health insurer for covered services, such as office visits and procedures.
The main issue appears to be how much Highmark will pay for OB/GYN Associates’ services.
“Additionally, OBGYN Associates has requested significant increases in the rates we pay them to care for our members,” Highmark officials said in the news release. “This increases costs that are paid for by the community.”
The practice did not return a phone message left with its office manager.
In its letter sent to patients, OB/GYN Associates encouraged them to call Highmark and tell the insurer that they are “disappointed about their inability to come to terms with OB/GYN Associates of Erie and keep our group in its network.”
If a deal can’t be reached, the practice would no longer be in Highmark’s provider network. Patients with Highmark insurance would have to pay much higher out-of-pocket fees for its services.
Women who are pregnant or under evaluation for a surgery might remain in-network until their postpartum care or post-operative visits are completed, OB/GYN Associates said in its letter.
It’s not the first time contract talks between OB/GYN Associates and Highmark have gone public. The practice sent a similar letter to its patients in 2024 before reaching an agreement with the health insurer.
The practice has a history of newsworthy negotiations with local hospitals and health insurers.
Contact David Bruce at dbruce@timesnews.com or by calling 814-870-1736.

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