Blue Shield of California Working to Keep UC Health In-Network

Blue Shield of California is negotiating in good faith with University of California (UC) Health and hopes to reach an agreement that ensures members continue to have access to UC Health hospitals and providers at reasonable cost and reimbursement rates that are sustainably affordable.

They are committed to working with their network providers to offer members and customers quality, affordable healthcare coverage through their nonprofit health plan.  

Members can continue to access UC Health through June 30, 2025, under the existing agreement. However, should UC Health leave Blue Shield’s network, the nonprofit health plan will ensure a smooth transition for members to in-network participating providers, hospitals, or medical facilities in their area.  

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is being negotiated?  Their goal is to negotiate terms for a new agreement that allows Blue Shield to continue offering members access to UC Health providers and hospitals without jeopardizing the long-term affordability of healthcare coverage in California.
• Are all UC hospitals and providers currently out of network with Blue Shield? No, UC Health remains in-network with Blue Shield. However, if negotiations are unsuccessful, UC Health hospitals, clinics and physicians will become out-of-network for Blue Shield members beginning July 1, 2025. 
• Will University of California Health hospitals' emergency services still be available?   Blue Shield members who need emergency services should call 911 or seek care at the nearest emergency room. Blue Shield will provide the full emergency care level of benefits for these services, including if emergency services are provided at a UC Health facility.  
• What should members do who are currently receiving care through University of California Health? Starting July 1, 2025, UC Health hospitals and provider groups might not be in-network for Blue Shield members. However, they are working diligently to retain these providers and facilities. Members will be informed about the negotiation results and guided to in-network providers if UC Health leaves the health plan’s network. Blue Shield's Continuity of Care program helps eligible members stay with their current provider during this transition. Members can begin the application process 30 days prior to termination of the network. For guidelines and additional information, please refer to Continuity of Care | Blue Shield of CA