Tensions between Legacy Health and health insurer Regence could leave many scrambling for coverage or facing hefty out-of-network fees. The two organizations have hit an impasse in negotiations, with the existing contract due to run out with the month and no further discussions currently set. Legacy Health, which serves Oregon and southwest Washington residents, stated that no more meetings are slated with Regence, leaving the fate of approximately 30,000 Regence-insured individuals with Legacy primary care providers hanging in the balance, KATU reported.

According to reports, if a new agreement is not forged by Sunday, patients with appointments at Legacy facilities beginning April 1 would be classified as out-of-network. Meanwhile, Regence has criticized Legacy's terms, calling them unrealistic, and too high, suggesting a rift that might not easily be bridged. "We are deeply regretting what's happening to patients, and that they are in the middle of this. Again, the reimbursement that occurs between Regence and Legacy is somewhat separate from what Regence ultimately then pass on to its customers,” Merrin Permut of Legacy Health told KATU.

While Regence made what it called a "best and final" offer to Legacy Health earlier in the month, Legacy did not accept this proposal. In the absence of a new contract, the standoff continues as the deadline looms, KGW reported.

Starting Monday, unless a last-minute agreement is reached, local patients may have to seek new in-network providers or steel themselves for the financial burden of out-of-network rates. This stark change in coverage signifies the potential upheaval in healthcare access for thousands. "Legacy Health patients insured by Regence Blue Cross Blue Shield may have a change in coverage soon," according to the coverage situation outlined by FOX12. With patient care caught in the financial crossfire, the outcome of this health care rivalry remains uncertain.