OCH talks UMMC affiliation and Blue Cross Blue Shield issue

JACKSON, Miss. (WTVA) - Following Tuesday's announcement that OCH Regional Medical Center is affiliating with the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the Oktibbeha County-based hospital released a statement concerning the Jackson hospital's contract issue with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Mississippi.

See the statement below.

"Nearly two months ago, the University of Mississippi Medical Center announced its intent to terminate its contract with BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi at midnight June 30, 2018 if a new contract between the two could not be agreed upon. The Medical Center would be considered “out-of-network” with the insurer effective July 1.

This change in network status pertains only to patients with BCBS commercial insurance. It does not impact employee participants and their dependents in the State Employees Health Insurance Plan, including Mississippi State University and Mississippi University for Women faculty and staff.

Oktibbeha County Hospital Regional Medical Center on Tuesday, June 26 announced its intent to enter into an affiliation agreement with UMMC. This affiliation will have no effect on OCH’s current relationship with BCBSMS, even if UMMC goes out of network with Blue Cross."

Many of you have asked if your BC/BS insurance will be accepted at OCH after yesterday's announcement of our affiliation with UMMC. No, it will not be affected. UMMC's contract with BC/BS and OCH's contract with BC/BS are two separate contracts.

— OCH_Regional (@OCH_Regional) June 27, 2018