Health

[SoDu Alert] Duke Health and Aetna Reach New Agreement, Avoid Coverage Disruption

Duke Health and Aetna reached a deal Oct. 3, keeping South Durham patients in-network and avoiding disruptions to Medicare and commercial coverage.

Wes Platt

Wes Platt

— 3 min read
Stethoscope on clipboard with eyeglasses nearby, symbolizing healthcare. Text reads: "Duke Health, Aetna Finalize Contract."
Duke Health and Aetna reach agreement ahead of deadline, keeping South Durham patients in-network and avoiding disruptions to care.

South Durham residents who use Aetna insurance to see providers at Duke Health can breathe easier: the two organizations have reached a new agreement, avoiding a disruption in care.

The Duke Health-Aetna contract was finalized on Friday, Oct. 3, well ahead of the Oct. 20 deadline that had many patients concerned they might lose access to their in-network doctors. Without an agreement, Duke Health would have become out-of-network for Aetna’s commercial and Medicare Advantage plans - affecting thousands of local patients.

A statement from Duke Health read:

"Throughout this negotiation, we have remained committed to serving our patients and their families’ best interests. We sincerely thank you, our patients and community, for your support in advocating to keep Duke Health in-network. Your efforts have made this positive outcome possible, ensuring you continue to have access to Duke Health experts and the high-quality care you deserve."

The new contract ensures that Aetna members in Durham and across the Triangle will continue to have full access to Duke Health’s network of specialists, hospitals, and clinics.

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