Raleigh-Durham

North Carolina Braces as Duke Healthcare and Aetna Negotiations Hang in Balance

AI Assisted Icon
Published on September 24, 2025
North Carolina Braces as Duke Healthcare and Aetna Negotiations Hang in BalanceSource: Youtube/NC DST

Contract negotiations between Duke Healthcare and insurance provider Aetna are nearing a deadline, with the current agreement set to expire in less than a month. State Health Plan members, who make up a large portion of Aetna’s customers in North Carolina, may need to find new providers if an agreement is not reached.

The North Carolina Department of State Treasurer sent a notice to members this week about the potential changes. State Treasurer Brad Briner is monitoring the situation closely as talks continue. State Treasurer Brad Briner issued a public statement today regarding the ongoing contract negotiations between Duke Healthcare and Aetna. The current contract is set to expire in less than a month, and the State Health Plan is Aetna’s largest client in North Carolina.

The Treasurer’s Office posted an update on its website explaining the situation and assuring members that they will be informed of any changes. The notice also provides guidance for Plan members on what to expect if an agreement is not reached, emphasizing the importance of continuity in healthcare services.