Patients Suffer As Insurers And Big Health Systems Spar For Market Share​

Contract disputes between insurers and medical providers have been a regular feature of the national health industry for a long time. But the stakes have risen as big players on both sides have expanded to gain market share and leverage in network negotiations.

Most negotiations are completed before the old contract expires, and consumers usually don't hear about these behind-the-scenes disagreements. But when insurers and providers fail to reach an agreement on time, it can force patients to pay higher prices for care that is no longer covered by their health plans. At the least, it can cause considerable anxiety.

The full NPR article can be viewed at this link.