Dec 18, 2024

Clinic releases additional information on BCBS decision

Posted Dec 18, 2024 1:30 PM

Hutchinson Clinic

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Clinic, a trusted healthcare provider serving the Reno County community for over 65 years, has made the difficult decision to no longer be in-network with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, effective January 1, 2025. This decision comes after extensive negotiations and careful evaluation of the financial impact.

Gratitude for Local Support

Hutchinson Clinic is deeply grateful for the ongoing support of the local businesses and community members who have recognized the importance of maintaining accessible healthcare in our area. We appreciate those businesses that have switched insurers to help support our clinic and keep healthcare local. We understand that some businesses are still in the middle of their insurance plan year and can’t take immediate action. We are grateful for their continued support, now and in the future.

A Necessary Change for the Clinic’s Future

"We did not take this decision lightly, but after thoughtful consideration, we feel it is the best course of action for the continued success and quality of care we provide," said Kolbe Sheridan, CEO of Hutchinson Clinic. "Our focus is always on delivering excellent care to our patients, and we will continue to work hard to make sure our community has access to that care."

Sheridan emphasized the importance of supporting locally-owned healthcare practices, noting that Hutchinson Clinic is a physician-owned and operated organization with deep roots in the community. "There are many insurance companies, but only one Hutchinson Clinic," he said. "We are proud of the work we do here, and our priority is to ensure that our patients receive the highest standard of care right here in their own community."

Keep Local Care Local

By making this change, we are reinforcing our commitment to keeping healthcare in our community. Large insurance companies may push you to seek care in bigger cities, but you deserve high-quality healthcare right here in our rural community. The dollars that patients pay in high premiums to these large companies are not staying in our community—they’re being sent elsewhere. 80% of Hutchinson Clinic employees live and work right here in Reno County. By supporting local healthcare, you help keep your community strong and thriving.

Ensuring Continuity of Care

While Hutchinson Clinic will no longer be in-network with Blue Cross as of January 1, 2025, the clinic remains committed to providing care to all patients, regardless of their insurance provider. For Blue Cross members, the transition may result in increased out-of-pocket costs, and the clinic strongly encourages members to reach out for personalized estimates and guidance.

"We want to make sure our patients are fully informed and have the support they need as we navigate this change," said Sheridan. "Our Patient Advocacy Center is here to assist with understanding insurance options and help avoid any confusion during this transition."

A Mission of Excellence

The mission of Hutchinson Clinic is simple but powerful: to maintain a culture of excellence by delivering the most advanced, timely, and compassionate care possible to our patients. This mission drives everything we do, and we remain committed to the health and well-being of our community.

For more information or to discuss how this transition may impact your healthcare plan, please contact the Hutchinson Clinic Patient Advocacy Center at 620-669-2577.