Update 10/23/24

While the Hutchinson Clinic is still open to resolving things with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, the contract has not been renewed. We expect to go out of network with Blue Cross Blue Shield plans starting January 1, 2025.

We understand that this change may be worrying, but we are committed to supporting Blue Cross Blue Shield patients through this. Patient care will continue to be Hutchinson Clinic’s top priority. We are committed to providing affordable out-of-network options so patients can keep receiving the care they trust.

Here is what patients with Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance need to know:

• The Hutchinson Clinic welcomes Blue Cross Blue Shield patients

• Patients do not need to find another physician or provider

• The registration and check-in experience will not change

• Patients will not have an additional out of pocket payment at the time of service

• The Clinic will submit patient claims to Blue Cross Blue Shield

• Patients will receive their standard billing statement when they owe a balance

• The Clinic’s payment options and payment plans will remain the same

Patients with additional questions can contact our Patient Advocacy Center (PAC). This dedicated team supports patients in navigating questions or concerns related to insurance coverage, medical costs, and payment plan options. Patients can contact the Patient Advocacy Center at (620) 669-2577 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, for additional assistance beginning 09/04/2024.

The Hutchinson Clinic has been serving patients in Kansas for 65 years. We will continue to take care of our community by providing the most advanced, timely, and compassionate care possible. We will continue to keep you and the community informed as communication will be on-going. This information will also be kept current here on our website.

Please Review Our Updated Frequently Asked Questions Below

Can Blue Cross Blue Shield patients still receive care at the Hutchinson Clinic?

Yes.

Who is affected?

Only patients with a Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plan are affected. Medicare Supplemental or Medigap insurance plans from Blue Cross Blue Shield will not be affected.

What if I have Medicare and I am a Retired Federal Employee with a Blue Cross Blue Shield plan?

Click here for more information about the Federal Employee Health benefit program. 

Why is the Hutchinson Clinic going out of network?

Competitive reimbursement allows the Hutchinson Clinic to recruit more providers, invest in technology, and expand our staff, making care more accessible and efficient for you. When Blue Cross Blue Shield raises your insurance premiums, we believe those funds should be reinvested into your local providers because rural communities deserve excellent care.

What do patients need to pay at the time of check in?

Patients should pay their usual copay or coinsurance when they check in. No extra payment is needed upfront. Any remaining balance will be due after Blue Cross Blue Shield processes the claim.

Will it cost more to see an out-of-network provider?

Being in-network doesn’t always mean lower costs for patients. Healthcare providers set different charges for various services, and costs can vary based on the provider’s contract with the insurance company. Generally, it’s cheaper to receive services at the Hutchinson Clinic than at an acute care hospital, imaging center, or independent laboratory.

What if Blue Cross Blue Shield sends the payment to the patient vs. the Clinic?

Insurance carriers usually offer a discount for services, but patients are always responsible for the remaining balance. The only change now is that patients will receive their plan payment directly from BCBS and use it to cover their balance.

How will the Clinic notify patients?

Patients will be kept informed as communication will be on-going. Information will be provided via direct communication, displayed in office, and be kept current here on our website.

Who can answer patient specific questions?

The Hutchinson Clinic has established a dedicated Patient Advocacy Center (PAC) to address and answer questions related to Blue Cross Blue Shield. Patients can contact (620) 669-2577 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, for additional assistance beginning 09/04/2024.

Click the links below for information that may be helpful for your specific plan.

• Federal Employee and Postal Service Health Benefits Information

• Medicare Advantage Announcement

• Health Insurance Marketplace 2025 Announcement

• KanCare/Medicaid Announcement