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SALT LAKE CITY — University of Utah Health and Aetna announced Monday that they have finally reached an agreement, keeping U. Health in-network for Aetna plans.
"Both organizations worked diligently to reach a fair agreement without impacting patient care for current Aetna members," the companies said in a joint statement.
The new agreement will last for multiple years, and includes U. Health hospitals, community centers and the U. Health Medical Group.
In December, U. Health published a notice warning patients that the contract may not continue, and would expire on Jan. 31.
The agreement came just three days before the expiration. This is an even closer call than the contract with U. Health and Regence BlueCross BlueShield in June 2023, which was resolved five days before its expiration.
Charlton Park, chief financial officer for U. Health Hospitals and Clinics, said they are pleased with the agreement.
"Aetna is an important partner and we appreciate their willingness to find a solution that benefits our patients and all of our teams who are dedicated to providing the highest quality care possible," he said.
John Wagner, Aetna's chief network officer for Utah, said Aetna is committed to getting its members high-quality, affordable health care and U. Health is a valued provider.
"We are pleased to continue working with them to care for our members and deliver on our shared goal of improving health outcomes for Utahns," he said in the statement.
