Becker's Healthcare September 13, 2024
The rising cost of care, growing Medicare Advantage pain points, and frustrations over not receiving appropriate or timely payments from commercial insurers are key factors driving health systems to take a tougher stance in contract renewal negotiations.
Many health systems reported record losses during the pandemic, and although average margins improved in recent months, they remain substantially lower than pre-pandemic levels. Hospitals continue to face rising operational costs due to inflation, workforce shortages and technology investments, making financial sustainability a top priority.
On the other side of the aisle, the country’s largest commercial insurers saw record gains, posting billions in profits in 2023.
Contract negotiation disputes between payers and providers that were reported in the media jumped 69%...