Local Hospitals Expand Participation For State Beneficiaries
12/2/2005

Keith Jennings
706.272.6118

Dalton, GA – Hamilton Medical Center and Murray Medical Center have reached agreement to participate in United Healthcare’s PPO option under the State Health Benefit Plan effective January 1, 2006. The agreement will allow beneficiaries under the Plan who have selected either Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia’s HMO option called BlueChoice or the United PPO option to access local hospitals.

“The hospitals’ plan participation has been expanded to offer State workers, retirees and their dependents more plan options. We are disappointed this agreement wasn’t finalized until after the enrollment period,” stated Hamilton Health Care System President and CEO, John Bowling. “The Governor’s Office was instrumental in finally reaching an agreement with United. The understanding of local teachers, State workers and retirees has been very appreciated throughout this process.”

Hospital officials said that the BlueChoice HMO and United PPO options offer a wide network of providers throughout the region and state, in addition to Hamilton Medical Center and Murray Medical Center.

Hospital officials are unaware of the status of discussions between United Healthcare and local physician practices.

No information from the State is available concerning any enrollment changes that will be allowed for beneficiaries for this additional option. However, if enrollment changes are allowed, beneficiaries are encouraged to check with their physician prior to making any election.

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