Hartford HealthCare is being encouraged by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield to end its contract dispute that has gone on for several weeks.  At the moment, the dispute is costing tens of thousands of Connecticut residents more in health care insurance.

Recently, Anthem requested Hartford HealthCare the two groups contact JAMS, an organization that helps with mediation and dispute resolution.  The goal is to end the standoff and help customers pay less for out-of-network rates when they seek treatment at Hartford HealthCare facilities. 

The issue has become enough of a concern that members of the Connecticut governor’s staff have weighed in.  According to the team, the governor has grown increasingly concerned.  His communication director, Kelly Donnelly, issued the following statement regarding the dispute: “It is imperative that the two parties come back together to reach an agreement, which ensures that the people in their care continue to receive quality services at an affordable price ”.

In addition the governor, Connecticut’s congressional delegation and the state comptroller, and the State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition, which represents 45,000 state employees and 25,000 retirees, have all weighed in on the dispute. 

At least one person familiar with these types of situations stated this current dispute is unusual in that these types of issues and negotiations rarely go on for this long.  In most cases, there is a resolution within days, and often before a contract even ends. 

Both sides have spoken out publicly against one another, which has heightened the frustration felt in the negotiations and by those watching the situation unfurl.  And despite both claiming they prefer not to “negotiating in the media” both sides have taken matters to the public.   Mediation could resolve the contract issues and help Connecticut residents with their healthcare needs.