We regret to inform you that Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has made the difficult decision to non-renew its Medicare Advantage contract (Contract #H4531) with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services ("CMS") in Harris, Montgomery, Jefferson, Galveston and El Paso counties, effective December 31, 2009.  As a result of this decision, the Medicare Advantage Amendment to your BCBSTX Network Participation Agreement will terminate effective December 31, 2009. 

We want to assure you that the terms of your BCBSTX Network Participation Agreement and Medicare Advantage Amendment, including provisions related to timely claims submission, prompt payment of claims, continuity of benefits, and grievance and appeals, will remain in effect for services provided to Blue Medicare PPO members through December 31, 2009. In the coming weeks, Blue Medicare PPO members will be notified of our decision to non-renew their Blue Medicare PPO plan, effective December 31, 2009, and will be provided a description of other Medicare plan options available to them in their area.  

It has been, and continues to be, our privilege to have you participate in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas provider network. This decision to non-renew our Medicare Advantage contract with CMS does not affect your participation in any other BCBSTX plan or program. Your provider agreement (minus the Medicare Advantage amendment) remains in full force and effect.  If you have any questions or concerns regarding the processing or handling of Blue Medicare PPO claims, please contact the Customer Service Department at 1-800-718-2031.  If you have any questions regarding your BCBSTX Network Participation Agreement or the Medicare Advantage Amendment, please contact your local Professional Provider Network office.

posted 08/2009