ABQ Health Partners
The State District Court today denied a request by Lovelace Health Plan to prevent ABQ Health Partners from communicating with their patients. The lawsuit was intended to prevent ABQ Health Partners doctors from having conversations with their patients about network changes that could force Lovelace Health Plan participants to leave their ABQ Health Partners’ doctors on November 8, 2012.
“This is a critical time for our patients to contact their doctor to get important information and to ensure their continued quality care,” said President of ABQ Health Partners Harry Magnes, MD. “The clock is ticking on Medicare enrollment and our patients’ ability to remain with their physician. The judge found that what we are doing to inform patients is not only appropriate, but in public interest.”
Patients can call ABQ Health Partners at 877.540.2715, Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm with questions, speak to a Medicare representative at 1.800.633.4227 at the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services or talk to their HR Benefits Administrator to learn more.
ABQ Health Partners has also appealed to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, the NM Attorney General, and to the NM Superintendent of Insurance to extend the open enrollment periods. Patients inappropriately contacted by Lovelace in doctors’ offices, waiting rooms and pharmacies can contact the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) at 1-800-633-4227.
The court's ruling further validates ABQ Health Partners position that this was a frivolous lawsuit on the part of Lovelace brought in an effort to try and prevent ABQ Health Partners from having conversations with their patients about network changes that may force Lovelace Health Plan patients to leave their ABQ Health Partners' doctors.
ABQ Health Partners is the largest physician-owned medical group in the Southwest. ABQ Health Partners cares for 180,000 patients including 26,000 Medicare managed care-based patients through a network of approximately 184 physicians. For more information please visit .