Thousands of Illinois state retirees, including those living in Southern Illinois, could lose access to their current BJC HealthCare doctors beginning January 1, prompting regional lawmakers to call for an agreement to protect patients.
BJC HealthCare and Washington University Medicine physicians are scheduled to leave the Aetna and Anthem Medicare Advantage networks on January 1, 2027.
The Illinois Department of Central Management Services estimates approximately 5,000 members of the state’s retiree insurance program could be affected.
State Representative Dave Severin says he joined several lawmakers Friday in signing a letter urging state officials, BJC and Aetna to reach an agreement that would allow retirees to maintain access to their healthcare providers.
State Senator Terri Bryant was among those signing the letter.
Severin says retirees deserve access to the affordable, quality healthcare benefits they have earned.
State Senator Erica Harriss also expressed concern, noting that affected retirees have only one state insurance option and could lose access to specialists they have relied on for years.
BJC attributes its decision to unresolved payment issues and administrative burdens, while Aetna says it remains willing to negotiate.
Governor JB Pritzker’s office has also encouraged both sides to reach an agreement.
The change does not eliminate retirees’ health insurance coverage, but it could require some patients to find new doctors.
Certain patients receiving ongoing treatment for serious medical conditions may qualify for continued care through their existing providers.
Affected retirees are encouraged to contact BJC and Aetna to determine whether they qualify for those exceptions.
State retirees needing assistance locating participating healthcare providers can contact Aetna at 855-223-4807.
Questions about retiree insurance enrollment and coverage options can be directed to MyBenefits at 844-251-1777.
The network changes involve Medicare Advantage plans and do not affect BJC’s existing commercial insurance agreements with Aetna.