Cancer Patients’ Insurance Coverage at Risk Due to Dispute Between Hospital and Insurer
Scores of cancer patients are in a state of panic and frustration as they receive letters informing them that their medical coverage may be terminated due to a financial dispute between Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Cigna, a leading health insurance giant.
The Dispute
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has been facing significant cost increases, and Cigna is not willing to help cover these expenses. As a result, the two parties have not been able to reach an agreement that would allow patients to receive high-quality care at an affordable price.
Patients’ Reactions
Leslie, a breast cancer survivor, was shocked and devastated when she received the letter from Sloan Kettering. "My heart just stopped. It’s a scary situation to have this burden placed on me," she said. "This is my health care."
Another patient, who is currently being treated for Stage 4 cancer, echoed Leslie’s sentiments. "This isn’t about people getting treated for a broken arm. This is a vulnerable population."
Sloan Kettering’s Solution
Sloan Kettering has urged patients to call Cigna to put pressure on the insurer to maintain their coverage. "We encourage you to call Cigna at the number on the back of your insurance card to tell them you want to keep access to MSK," according to a letter sent to patients.
Assemblywoman’s Comments
State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Scarsdale) has criticized the situation, stating, "The patients are caught in the middle. Both parties have to admit it’s horrible for the patients. They have an obligation to work it out so patients aren’t used as pawns."
Current Situation
Patients receiving active treatment at the world-renowned cancer center will still qualify for in-network coverage at least through April 14, 2024. Bone marrow transplants will be covered for a year from treatment. The current contract has been extended until February 15, 2024, as both parties work to finalize a new agreement.
FAQs
Q: How many patients will be affected if the contract is not renewed?
A: The number of patients affected is unknown.
Q: Why is Cigna not willing to help cover expenses?
A: Cigna is not willing to help cover the significant cost increases faced by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Q: What is Memorial Sloan Kettering doing to resolve the issue?
A: Memorial Sloan Kettering has urged patients to call Cigna to put pressure on the insurer to maintain their coverage.
Q: What is the current status of the contract extension?
A: The current contract has been extended until February 15, 2024, and a new contract is in the works.
