New Hampshire Insurance Department Announces That St. Joseph Hospital and Anthem Network Have Agreed to Meet to Discuss Contractual Dispute

CONCORD, NH (January 3, 2025) – The New Hampshire Insurance Department (NHID) is providing the public and stakeholders with an update on the ongoing contract dispute between St. Joseph Hospital in Nashua and Anthem, New Hampshire’s largest health insurance carrier. Both parties have agreed to meet with the NHID on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

“During this meeting, we will present the data, information, and resources that the NHID can offer to assist them in hopefully reaching an agreement,” said Insurance Commissioner DJ Bettencourt. “I have also made it clear that negotiations should continue prior to the meeting. The NHID remains committed to facilitating a resolution that minimizes disruption to patients.”

The NHID estimates that approximately 8,000 to 10,000 patients are directly affected by this dispute. This figure is lower than initially thought. However, it remains unclear whether this number accounts for individuals accessing care at St. Joseph outside of hospital-provided services, such as outpatient or rehabilitation facilities. Anthem’s Medicare Advantage members are confirmed not to be impacted.

In the event that negotiations fail, the NHID highlights that there are existing protections for patients. Under RSA 420-J:8, XI, Anthem must continue paying claims at in-network rates for 60 days post-notification. Additionally, federal laws ensure coverage for “continuing care patients,” which includes individuals with chronic illnesses and pregnant people, for at least 90 days post-notification or until they are no longer considered “continuing care” patients with the terminated facility.

The NHID understands that negotiations between the parties remain active.

“While state and federal law provides patients with short-term protections and continuity of care for vulnerable populations, both parties recognize the disruption to the clients they serve should an agreement not be reached,” added Commissioner Bettencourt. “While there are still legitimate unresolved issues, I believe both parties genuinely share a desire to come to an agreement, and there is no reason to delay current negotiations.”

Consumers with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the NHID Consumer Services Division at 603-271-2261 or visit https://insurance.nh.gov. 

The New Hampshire Insurance Department Can Help

The New Hampshire Insurance Department’s mission is to promote and protect the public good by ensuring the existence of a safe and competitive insurance marketplace through the development and enforcement of the insurance laws of the State of New Hampshire. Contact us with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your insurance coverage at 1‐800‐852‐ 3416 or (603) 271‐2261, or by email at consumerservices@ins.nh.gov. For more information, visit https://insurance.nh.gov/.