Blue Cross Blue Shield Ga. issues run out notice for NGHS

GAINESVILLE - Northeast Georgia Health Systems announced today that Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia has issued a run-out notice.<br /> <br /> That means the health system will no longer be part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) network as of March 1, 2015.<br /> <br /> "Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGHS) will be dropped from the Blue Cross Blue Shield network effective March 1, 2015," said Melissa Tymchuk, spokeswoman for NGHS. "In addition to that, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group and the Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center will no longer be part of the Blue Cross network effective October 1, 2014."<br /> <br /> Tymchuk stressed that Medicare plans were not affected by the change . "This does not affect any Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia Medicare Insurance Plans and that includes Medicare supplement plans, Medicare Advantage and Medicare state health benefit plans."<br /> <br /> Tymchuk said after negotiating since January, talks ended last week when the run out notice was issued by the insurance company. <br /> <br /> "We are fortunate to have long-term relationships with many commercial insurance companies in our community," said Tymchuk. "Unfortunately, there are some instances when contracts end, and that's what is happening with BCBSGA." <br /> <br /> Tymchuk said NGHS is in the process of contacting affected patients. Patients with question can call the dedicated phone line, 770-219-6610, or visit the website linked below.<br />