As the contract deadline nears, Florida Hospital remains hopeful an agreement can be reached
Orlando, FL, July 19, 2010: Florida Hospital appreciates the opportunity to serve the community by providing a high quality, safe health care environment for patients; however, those with United HealthCare may soon have limited access to certain physicians and elective health care at Florida Hospital. As the contract sets to expire on August 15, 2010, Florida Hospital believes it is crucial to maintain open communication with those who may possibly be affected by this important issue.
Florida Hospital has been in negotiations with United HealthCare since the fall of 2009 and announced today that it is continuing contract discussions with United. Both parties want to find a resolution that is fair for the good of the patients and the communities affected by the agreement. Florida Hospital is informing all parties involved of the progress of the negotiations. All United health plans, the 18 Florida Hospitals, 18 Centra Cares, ancillary services and Florida Hospital employed physicians are affected by these contract negotiations.
Florida Hospital stands by three central themes it believes should be incorporated into all health insurance contracts:
1. Florida Hospital is committed to having all large health plans pay the same rates for health care services
2. Florida Hospital seeks to blend multiple rate schedules so that all insurance health plans pay the hospital at the same rate.
3. Florida Hospital is working to ensure all provisions of the new contract are stated clearly.
"We are pursuing adequate payments from United, as we do with other plans, in order to provide the quality health care patients deserve and expect," said Lars Houmann, president and CEO of Florida Hospital. "We know it is important for the community to have uninterrupted access to our services. We are hopeful that a fair contract can be reached and we appreciate your patience as we continue to work through this."
In the coming weeks, Florida Hospital will provide updates, as warranted, on the negotiations as discussions progress. Florida Hospital's managed care department is available at 866-338-7494 to speak to individuals with questions or concerns.