MedExpress says Highmark contract talks are at impasse

A MedExpress Urgent Care spokeswoman this week said contract renewal talks with Highmark have reached an impasse, while a Highmark spokesman said the insurer remains in active discussions with MedExpress parent Optum and suggested the two parties will reach a new accord.

MedExpress spokeswoman Kelly Sorice said Highmark recently sent a termination notice stating the 81 MedExpress urgent care centers would no longer be part of the Highmark network in Pennsylvania and West Virginia once the current contract expires Aug. 1.

She also said MedExpress is not seeking a rate increase.

“In fact, we’ve been very open and willing to work with Highmark to remain in network at rates reflective of the value we deliver,” Ms. Sorice said.

While the current contract’s expiration is still three months away, “It’s only fair that we let our patients know we don’t yet have an extension,” she said.

Highmark spokesman Aaron Billger declined to discuss whether the insurer had sent a termination letter to MedExpress but emphasized, “We value our relationship with MedExpress and we fully expect to have MedExpress as a long-term partner with Highmark.” Steve Twedt: stwedt@post-gazette.com or 412-263-1963.