Highmark Medicare Advantage: Important Information Regarding Buffalo Medical Group

Buffalo Medical Group (BMG) has sent a letter to Highmark Medicare Advantage members notifying them that they may terminate their Medicare Advantage contract with Highmark BCBS. Highmark is negotiating a new agreement with BMG and the current agreement with their primary care providers and most specialists will continue until July 1, 2025. Highmark BCBS members can continue to see their BMG doctors during this time. A small portion of BMG providers are covered under BMG's group contract which ends January 1, 2025. Highmark BCBS will notify members impacted by this as they do with any imminently terminating contract.

Highmark's goal is to reach an agreement that would keep BMG in network, without significantly raising costs for customers. They remain committed to trying to find a solution that is fair to both members and providers.

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What This Means for Members:

• Members will have the opportunity to review their Medicare coverage options starting October 15. This will allow them to choose a plan that best meets their needs, especially if BMG ultimately leaves the network.
• Even if BMG leaves the network, members will still have access to other quality providers. Highmark has agreements with other major physician practices in the region. Members can find in-network alternatives by logging into the member portal online or through the MyHighmark app.

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Highmark BCBS understands this news may be concerning, and they are committed to keeping you informed throughout this process.  

They will send member communications to ensure members understand the impact on their specific provider closer to the contract termination date if a deal has not been reached.

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