Providence's contract expiration date extended for Cigna in Washington state
Providence has reached agreement in principle and has agreed to a one-month extension for our current commercial contract with Cigna in Washington while the details are finalized. This means that our commercial contract with Cigna may expire on Oct. 1, 2026. As a result, Cigna members in Washington will continue to have access to Providence hospitals and clinics as we negotiate a new contract.
Providence has been actively working with Cigna to agree to new reimbursement terms in Washington state so that we can provide ongoing care for our patients with Cigna insurance.
Note: Commercial health insurance refers to private plans typically purchased by individuals or provided by employers as part of employee benefits packages. Commercial health plans are different than government insurance programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid.
These negotiations impact all ministries and services in Washington, including Providence, Providence Swedish, Kadlec and PacMed. Negotiations do not affect patients with Medicare or Medicaid.
Key points to know
- Patients with Cigna commercial insurance may be non-contracted with Providence on Oct. 1, 2026, if we do not reach an agreement.
- Right now, patients with Cigna insurance can still receive care at Providence as we negotiate a new contract.
- We are hopeful to come to agreement with Cigna before the expiration date to avoid any disruption to their members’ ability to receive care at our hospitals and clinics.
- Patients with questions about their coverage should contact Cigna directly by calling the number on the back of their member ID card or Cigna Customer Service at 800-997-1654.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is happening and why?
Providence is working with Cigna in Washington to agree to new terms, including reimbursement rates, for the services we provide. We hope to reach an agreement with Cigna before our current commercial contract potentially ends on Oct. 1, 2026.
Providence cares deeply about the people we serve. At the same time, we face serious challenges. Health systems across the country and in our communities, including Providence, are experiencing the crushing weight of rapidly rising costs of care caused by inflation, wage increases and supply disruption.
Providence cannot continue to absorb the increased costs required to provide high-quality care without adequate, timely reimbursement rates for the services we provide. We are working tirelessly to combat rising costs, yet insurers, including Cigna, also need to be part of the solution – working with us to keep care sustainable.
Can I still see my provider?
On or before Sept. 30, you can still receive care at Providence as we negotiate a new contract.
If Providence and Cigna do not agree on a new commercial contract, Providence hospitals and clinics will be non-contracted on Oct. 1. This means you may have to pay more for care at Providence after the contract ends.
Can I keep my scheduled appointment or procedure on or after Oct. 1?
Some Cigna members may qualify for “Continuity of Care,” which allows temporary coverage for certain conditions 90 days after the contract expiration date. Cigna determines whether you are eligible for Continuity of Care. You can contact
Cigna by calling the number on the back of your member ID card or Cigna Customer Service at 800-997-1654.
Can I still use Providence for emergencies?
Yes. By law, patients always have access to our emergency departments, regardless of our contract status with Cigna. If you experience an emergency, you should visit the nearest emergency department.
What can I do?
We still hope to reach an agreement with Cigna before Oct. 1. In addition to exploring other health insurance plans that contract with us, you can take these steps to protect your access to care with Providence:
• Call Cigna. Use the number on the back of your insurance card or call Cigna Customer Service at 800-997-1654 and tell them how important it is to have access to Providence hospitals and clinics.
• Talk to your HR or benefits manager at work. If you receive your health insurance through your employer, ask your Human Resources or benefits manager about other options that will protect your access to Providence.
• Apply for Continuity of Care. Patients who are pregnant or getting active treatment for a chronic condition may qualify for “Continuity of Care” or extended access through Cigna. If you think you may qualify, call the number on the back of your insurance card or Cigna Customer Service at 800-997-1654.
Providence’s first focus is our patients. We understand that disruptions in your access to healthcare are frustrating and will do our best to keep you updated. As always, Providence has a team of financial counselors available to help those who are uninsured, underinsured or otherwise unable to pay for their health care, as well as provide assistance with medical bills, including free or discounted care. Patients can learn more on our financial assistance website.
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