Update on BlueCross Negotiations

Ballad Health is clarifying information regarding access to physicians for TennCare members following communications from BlueCross and BlueShield of Tennessee to its TennCare, or BlueCare, customers.

Letters sent by BlueCross and BlueShield of Tennessee suggest customers may not be able to access their physicians if Ballad Health is no longer part of the BlueCare network. This is not accurate.

TennCare members will not lose TennCare coverage as a result of the negotiations between Ballad Health and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. TennCare members may choose another TennCare plan and continue receiving care from their Ballad Health and Ballad Health Medical Associates physicians.

Ballad Health and Ballad Health Medical Associates physicians are currently in-network with the other TennCare plans offered in the region, including UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Tennessee and Wellpoint Tennessee.

Ballad Health continues to negotiate in good faith with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, with the goal of reaching an agreement for all plans, including commercial, exchange, Medicare Advantage and BlueCare.

If Ballad Health and BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee do not reach an agreement for BlueCare by Jan. 1, 2027, TennCare members enrolled in BlueCare may switch plans and maintain access to their Ballad Health provider or physician of choice.

TennCare members with questions about access to their physician are encouraged to speak with their physician or contact Ballad Health at 833-8-BALLAD (833-822-5523).