Skip to content
February 01, 2023

Rep. Crane Joins Senators Sinema and Kelly in Bipartisan Letter Defending Rural Arizonans’ Access to Health Care

WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Eli Crane (AZ-02) partnered with Senators Sinema and Kelly in a letter to urge Blue Cross Blue Shield Arizona (BCBSAZ) and Dignity Health’s Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Yavapai Regional Medical Group to forge forward on contract negotiations and continue health coverage for all enrollees throughout the process.

According to notices sent out to patients by both BCBSAZ and Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center would be considered out-of-network for thousands of rural BCBSAZ enrollees, beginning February 1, 2023.

“In accordance with all existing rules, regulations, and ethical guidelines, we respectfully urge both parties to extend negotiations and to allow impacted BCBSAZ patients to maintain in-network coverage at Yavapai Regional Medical Center until an agreement is reached. We stand ready to assist your efforts.”

Read their letter here.

While patients undergoing active treatment at Yavapai will be considered ‘in-network’ for the duration of their care, other patients who had scheduled, non-emergency procedures for after February 1st would be considered out-of-network and could face higher out-of-pocket costs. Impacted BCBSAZ patients would still be able to see primary care providers at Dignity’s larger provider network and through Yavapai’s community health clinics, but it would force many patients to drive at least an hour away to receive in-network inpatient hospital services.

“The health and well-being of rural Arizonans is a fundamental priority. I’m proud to join my colleagues in standing up for this urgently needed care,” added Rep. Crane.

Read their letter here.

###