Aetna insurance and Norman Regional Health System in Oklahoma are no longer in network with each other, a change that took effect this past Saturday. The split means that patients who carry Aetna coverage and seek care at Norman Regional facilities will now face higher out-of-pocket costs or need to find care elsewhere, according to reports from News 9 and KFOR.
The two organizations were unable to reach a contract agreement before the deadline passed. Network disputes between insurers and health systems have become more common across the country in recent years, often leaving patients caught in the middle while negotiations stall.
Norman Regional Health System serves a significant patient population in the Norman, Oklahoma area. For Aetna members who regularly use Norman Regional for primary care, specialist visits, or hospital services, the change requires action. Those patients will need to either switch to in-network providers, seek care at Norman Regional and absorb the higher costs, or look into whether any exceptions apply to their specific plan.
Patients with Aetna coverage who have ongoing treatment or scheduled procedures at Norman Regional are encouraged to contact both their insurance provider and the health system directly to understand their options before seeking care.