Pallone Blasts Hackensack Meridian and Horizon for Threatening Access to Care in NJ

Long Branch, NJ - Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) criticized Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, the largest health insurance provider in the state, and Hackensack Meridian Health, the state's largest hospital system, for their inability to reach an agreement that will keep the hospital system in-network. Failure to come to an agreement could put access to health care at risk for hundreds of thousands of New Jerseyans.

"It's extremely frustrating that Hackensack Meridian and Horizon are jeopardizing access to essential care for hundreds of thousands of families across our state. These companies need to get serious about finding a quick resolution that protects patients and ensures people can get the care they need," said Congressman Pallone. "I urge both sides to continue working at the negotiating table in good faith to reach a compromise that will avoid any devastating interruptions in services and puts patients over profits."

The contract between the companies will terminate on February 1, but patients' care will not be impacted until June 1. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey provides coverage to over 3.3 million people, while Hackensack Meridian Health serves close to 2 million patients annually at its facilities, including 18 hospitals and hundreds of patient care locations across the state.