The current contract between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota and Aspirus St. Luke’s Health in Duluth and the surrounding areas is set to expire on January 1, 2026. Negotiations are underway between the parties. The contracts directly affect Aspirus patients covered by Blue Cross health insurance plans.
If a new contract is not finalized by January 1, Aspirus St. Luke’s (and other Aspirus facilities) will be considered out-of-network for patients with most BCBSMN plans. Patients would face significantly higher out-of-pocket costs, and services would be covered only at out-of-network rates, except in true emergencies.
Aspirus has publicly stated that it is seeking contract terms that reflect current care costs and allow it to invest in maintaining its services and technology in the region. They argue that the insurer’s rates must be sustainable for the health system to continue operating at its current level.
Blue Cross generally expresses the need to control rising healthcare costs for its members. Their position typically centers on ensuring that any rate increases are reasonable and justifiable to prevent premium hikes for individuals, families, and employers who purchase their plans.
Patients with Blue Cross plans who use Aspirus St. Luke’s providers are advised to closely follow the negotiations. Blue Cross often has an online tool or a customer service line to help members determine whether their plan includes continuity of care provisions or whether they should consider alternative providers if the contract lapses.
It is important to note that these disputes are common in the healthcare industry, and most are typically resolved before the deadline. However, patients should prepare for the possibility of a lapse in coverage. Both organizations have continued to communicate with patients and the public, confirming that they are actively meeting and negotiating to avoid an interruption in coverage.
Historically, most of these significant contract disputes are resolved in the final days of December. However, patients should still prepare contingency plans by understanding their out-of-network benefits and researching alternative providers in the event of a brief lapse.
