BULLETIN 2005-30
TO ALL BENEFITS CONTACTS

Mt. Carmel Hospitals, Knox Community Hospital and Lima Memorial Hospital are currently in contract negotiations with health plans that serve state employees.

As part of the negotiation process these hospitals may contact you, former patients, and DAS explaining that the contract is coming to an end. It has become a negotiating technique for hospitals to notify affected individuals, area employers and the media of contracting issues.

Knox Community Hospital in Mt. Vernon has expressed to DAS concern about negotiations with UnitedHealthcare (UHC) and indicates they may leave the network effective March 1, 2006.

Lima Memorial Hospital has contacted the state expressing concern that they may not renew their contract with Medical Mutual early next year.

Mt. Carmel has begun distributing a notice to patients advising them that unless agreement is reached with UHC, all but non-emergency coverage will be terminated for UHC enrollees. Mt. Carmel has stated that they intend to do a mailing and media campaign to explain their position to the community.

DAS will monitor these situations and allow employees to change plans if the affected health plan can no longer provide services as stipulated in their contract (a hospital within 20 miles of each enrollee). DAS is hopeful that negotiations between these hospitals and the health plans are successful and that no employee will face disruption of services.

If you have any questions, please contact Benefits Customer Service at (614) 466-8857 or send an E-mail to benefits@das.state.oh.us