Inova “out of network” starting Oct. 1 after failing to reach accord with Kaiser Permanente

As of October 1st Inova will no longer be an in-network provider to those with Kaiser- Permanente coverage, according to an Inova press release.  Kaiser will no longer refer its members to to Inova facilities, physicians or out-patient services, the release stated.

Mark Stauder, President and COO of Inova, was quoted as saying “It is extremely disappointing, after months of discussion, to come away without an affiliation renewal especially as open enrollment looms for many in the Metro area. We addressed many points ranging from physician privileges to reimbursement rates, offering favorable solutions in good faith.  But since 2007 Kaiser referrals to Inova have fallen 80% clearly demonstrating Inova is not part of Kaiser’s long-term strategic consideration.”

Inova’s five hospitals are among the top 15 regionally including Inova Fairfax Hospital ranked #1 in the Metro DC market for a second year in a row by U-S News & World Report. It has historically provided Kaiser members high quality healthcare at market cost.

“This impasse is regrettable not so much for Inova and Kaiser Permanente, but for the community who enjoyed superior care afforded by this affiliation,” Stauder was quoted as saying.

Contract negotiations began in March. The announcement was issued Sept. 24.