Our members are at the core of everything we do. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) is committed to working with health care providers across the state to advance access to quality, value-based health care.
Our focus is on value for our members and employer groups — and that means facilitating access to quality care at a competitive price.
Springfield Clinic first sent us an improper 30-day termination notice for one of our networks, Blue Choice. The timing of that termination notice coincided with the 2021 open enrollment period for one of the largest employers in Springfield. Near that time, Springfield Clinic also sent misleading communications directly to BCBSIL members and to the marketplace, creating concern and confusion.
We’d like to share the facts:
- Springfield Clinic’s participation agreement for the PPO and Blue Choice networks will terminate on November 17, 2021, unless a new arrangement can be made.
- Springfield Clinic remains in-network for BCBSIL PPO, Blue Choice Options, Blue Choice Select, Blue Choice Preferred members until November 17, 2021.
- Springfield Clinic remains in-network for the BCBSIL Blue Choice Tier 1 benefits for the State of Illinois Open Access Plan members until November 17, 2021.
- In addition, Springfield Clinic’s ambulatory surgery center agreement for participation in all commercial networks, including PPO, Blue Choice and HMO networks, will terminate on August 19, 2021.
We will use the time between now and November 17 to best support our members. This window of time will allow BCBSIL to inform members and groups of their options. It also will give BCBSIL and Springfield Clinic the opportunity and time to work toward a collaborative resolution that continues access to quality, cost-effective care.
If we are not able to reach an agreement that provides the kind of quality and value our members deserve, we will help our members choose an in-network provider.
This will allow them to continue to take maximum advantage of lower out-of-pocket costs and to continue to build in-network accruals toward their deductible. BCBSIL has network arrangements in place with other providers in the Springfield area who demonstrate a commitment to quality and value. Some members being treated for certain conditions also may be covered by what is known as "continuity of care." This means they may still be able to use Springfield Clinic at the in-network benefit level under their current plan for a period of time, even if Springfield Clinic is out-of-network.
We encourage members to call the number on their member ID card with questions about their BCBSIL coverage, including any continuity of care questions. We’re here to help.
If you have any questions about Springfield Clinic’s engagement and messaging on this topic, please call Springfield Clinic at 217.391.7086.
We continue to be open and hopeful around future successful agreement discussions with Springfield Clinic that focus on quality, value-based, outcome-driven health care to best serve our members.