Portneuf Health announces new agreement with Regence BlueShield of Idaho

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Portneuf Health announced Saturday afternoon they reached a new agreement with Regence BlueShield of Idaho insurance, calling it a "long-term" deal for all Regence members that restores in-network access and rates.

The agreement restores in-network access for Regence members at all Portneuf Health facilities, including physicians and advanced practice providers. Members can once again receive care at in-network rates. Portneuf says this helps alleviate any further disruption and the ability for families to continue seeing providers they know and trust at Portneuf Health.

The agreement is also retroactive to June 15, meaning all claims within the time when Portneuf Health was out of network will be covered at in-network rates. Along with the reimbursement, Portneuf said the agreement will help simplify administrative processes and "enhance the experience for patients and providers."

In a press release from August 15 sent by Portneuf Health, CEO Nate Carter stated, "This agreement is an important step forward for patients who rely on our teams for care. It restores in-network access, provides greater certainty for patients and families, and establishes a foundation that supports the long-term delivery of high-quality care in our region."

In the same press release, Mark Ruszczyk, president of Regence BlueShield of Idaho said, "We appreciate Portneuf’s willingness to work with us on an agreement that allows our members to continue access to in-network care at Portneuf Health. We are also grateful to the Pocatello community for its patience as we advocated for affordability on behalf of our members and customers."

Patients who have questions about their coverage at Portneuf are encouraged to contact Regence or visit their website at regence.com.