YRMC News

Statement from Dignity Health regarding contract negotiations with Aetna

by Carmelle Malkovich, Director of External Communications, Dignity Health in Arizona, (602) 406-3319 | Apr 05, 2024

Over the last several months, Dignity Health has been working in good faith to reach a new, responsible contract agreement with Aetna that puts patients first, and keeps Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG) in-network for Aetna members. 

Despite our best efforts, we have not yet been able to reach an agreement. As a result, beginning Friday, April 5, Dignity Health YRMG is no longer considered part of Aetna’s network. Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center remains in-network. 

Aetna patients in active treatment may be eligible for continuity of care benefits. Patients can obtain a Transition Coverage Request form (continuity of care) on the Aetna website or by calling Aetna using the phone number on the back of their insurance card.

Our organization relies on fair contracts to help us cover normal increases in the cost of providing high-quality care. Inflation has increased costs substantially and has created serious challenges for not-for-profit health care providers like us throughout Arizona and across the nation. 

We do not underestimate our responsibility as Yavapai County’s major provider of high-quality health care services. Our patients and the community are at the center of everything we do, and we recognize the inconvenience this situation creates. 

Although our contract with Aetna has ended, we are continuing to work in the best interests of our patients in hopes of reaching a new agreement with Aetna as soon as possible. 

We encourage patients to call 877-729-2669 or visit www.dignityhealth.org/aetna to stay informed about their coverage including continuity of care.