Prime Healthcare Statement Regarding Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Member Notice

Prime Healthcare recently learned that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) distributed a letter to its members stating that Prime Healthcare hospitals and physicians may leave the BCBSIL network on June 1, 2026. While contract negotiations are ongoing, we want to reassure our patients and communities that Prime Healthcare's priority remains ensuring uninterrupted access to high-quality care.

Prime Healthcare has been working in good faith with BCBSIL to resolve issues and reach a fair agreement that allows us to continue providing care to BCBSIL members at our hospitals and physician practices across Illinois that provide essential services to thousands of residents annually, including:

• Holy Family Medical Center - Des Plaines
• Mercy Medical Center - Aurora
• Resurrection Medical Center - Chicago
• Saint Francis Hospital - Evanston
• Saint Joseph Medical Center - Joliet
• Saint Joseph Hospital - Elgin
• St. Mary's Hospital - Kankakee
• Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital - Chicago

Unfortunately, BCBSIL's letter may create unnecessary concern for patients while negotiations are still ongoing. Our goal is to reach an agreement that protects patient access while ensuring hospitals can continue to provide high-quality care in the communities we serve.

At this time:

• Prime Healthcare hospitals and physicians remain in-network with BCBSIL.
• Patients should continue to keep scheduled appointments and procedures.
• Emergency services will always be provided regardless of insurance status.

Importantly, our physicians and caregivers remain committed to serving patients regardless of their insurance coverage. Prime Healthcare does not balance bill patients. We are committed to protecting patients from unexpected medical bills and will continue to follow all applicable patient protections under the federal No Surprises Act and other state and federal laws. These protections are designed to ensure that patients are not held responsible for inappropriate or unexpected out-of-network charges.

Prime Healthcare remains hopeful that BCBSIL will work collaboratively with us to finalize an agreement that prioritizes patients and preserves access to care across Illinois.

We will continue to keep patients and the community informed as negotiations progress. Patients with questions are encouraged to contact their Prime Healthcare hospital or physician office for additional information.