Northern Light Health says contract negotiations have stalled with Anthem

Northern Light Health said contract negotiations with Anthem have stalled over reimbursement rates.

Northern Light said that annual reimbursements from Anthem have increased less than 1.5% a year, while average inflation for health services is more than 7% a year.

“Anthem’s unwillingness to keep pace with the costs of providing care directly contribute to the risks facing rural healthcare,” shared James Rohrbaugh, Northern Light Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

If the two organizations can't reach agreement, their contract will expire on September 30 and Northern Light Health will no longer be an in-network provider for Anthem plans.

Anthem did not immediately respond to a request for comment.