Columbia News

University of Missouri Health Care representatives appeared before the Missouri Senate Insurance and Banking Committee to address ongoing negotiations with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. MU Health Care emphasized its dedication to maintaining access and delivering quality care for Central Missourians, stating it would not accept an unfair agreement from Anthem.

Dr. Ted Choma, Chair of University Physicians, commented on the situation: “Today we stood alongside our patients, community leaders and local businesses to share the negative impact Anthem’s tactics have had on our patients and community. Our hope is to continue to work with those who have a shared interest in the health of our communities to ensure local access to advanced care long into the future.” He added that as a public not-for-profit health system, MU Health Care's mission differs fundamentally from Anthem's profit-driven approach.

MU Health Care outlined several concerns during the hearing:

1. Commitment to Mission: As a public not-for-profit entity, MU Health Care relies on its operating margin for reinvestment in clinical care, education, research, technology, and community services. Without this margin, it risks losing top physicians and compromising service delivery.

2. Sustainability of Local Health Care: The health system faces challenges such as workforce shortages, payer issues, inflation, and necessary investments in technology and cybersecurity. Operating costs have increased by about 7% annually without corresponding reimbursement adjustments from insurers.

3. Fair Rates: MU Health Care seeks rates comparable to those paid by other managed care companies in the region and similar academic health systems supported by Anthem. Without fair compensation from Anthem, MU Health Care must defend its future while ensuring regional health services.

The hearing was described as a critical step toward understanding how Anthem's refusal to adequately reimburse has affected negotiations and patient care.