Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (Horizon) have finalized a new multi-year contract, securing uninterrupted, in-network access to HMH’s doctors, hospitals, and healthcare facilities across the state. The agreement, reached two months ahead of the June 1 deadline, brings relief to thousands of New Jersey residents who had faced the possibility of losing access to vital medical care.
The negotiations had raised concerns about healthcare disruptions, particularly in Lakewood, where HMH hospitals such as Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Ocean University Medical Center serve a large portion of the community. Without an agreement, Horizon members would have been forced to seek alternative hospitals for emergency care, maternity services, and specialized treatments.
The dispute between HMH and Horizon had centered on reimbursement rates, with HMH arguing that it required fair compensation to sustain its services and Horizon warning that excessive price increases would lead to higher costs for consumers. The uncertainty had caused widespread concern, particularly among patients undergoing critical treatments such as cancer therapy, maternity care, and major surgeries.
The resolution ensures that Horizon members will not need to change hospitals, and those already undergoing treatment will not experience any disruptions in their care. Emergency services at HMH hospitals will remain covered at in-network rates, eliminating the concerns that had been mounting over potential out-of-pocket expenses.
For patients with specific questions about their plan benefits, Horizon has advised them to contact the insurer using the number on their insurance card. Hackensack Meridian Health has also provided a helpline at 848-245-8241 for additional assistance.
If you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor.
If you like your plan, you can keep your plan.