Augusta Health May Leave the Cigna Healthcare Network January 1, 2026
What You Need to Know
October 2025
Augusta Health may leave our network on January 1, 2026, unless we agree to significant rate increases that far exceed those of other local providers. Augusta Health is demanding significant rate increases that will raise costs even more for you and your family.
We have had a positive relationship with Augusta Health, and we want them to stay in our network. We have been negotiating with Augusta Health to reach agreement on a new contract that will keep healthcare affordable for you and your family. This is especially important as you are dealing with rising costs of care. While our contract negotiations with Augusta Health continue, we want you to be aware of what this means and actions you may need to take.
Why is this happening?
We recognize that Augusta Health, like many health care providers across the country, is facing labor shortages and other factors that contribute to cost pressures, but we have a responsibility to keep your health care affordable. Since Augusta Health notified us of their significant demands, the Cigna Healthcare team has been working hard to renew our contract. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we haven’t reached an agreement yet.
We have a longstanding relationship with Augusta Health to provide care to this community and we would like to keep them in our network, but only at fair, affordable rates. The issue is their price. Health care already costs too much and Augusta Health is trying to make it even more expensive for you.
What does this mean for me?
Consider who pays Augusta Health’s bills. Almost all of Cigna Healthcare’s business with Augusta Health is through employer-sponsored plans that are self-funded. That means the actual cost of health care services is directly paid by employers, their employees and their families through payroll deductions. When the cost of care goes up, employers and customers ultimately pay more.
Who will be affected?
If Augusta Health leaves our network, OAP and PPO plan members will be affected, and any services delivered by these providers would be covered at an out-of-network benefit level (if your plan has out-of-network benefits). Seeking care from out-of-network facilities and providers will lead to higher costs, which is why we encourage you to seek care from in-network providers.
Where can I access in-network care if Augusta Health leaves our network?
- UVA Medical Center
- Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital
- Sentara RMH Medical Center
What if I am receiving ongoing treatment when the contract ends?
You may be eligible for Continuity of Care. This program allows you to continue in-network coverage for certain medical treatment provided by Augusta Health for a defined period of time even after the hospital leaves your network.
To find out more about Continuity of Care, please contact us at the toll-free number on your Cigna ID card, or use the myCigna® app or website. You’ll find the Continuity of Care brochure and application there:
- Go to myCigna.com.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on Find a Form.
- Select Medical, and then choose Transition of Care/Continuity of Care Form.
If you call us, please let the Customer Service Advocate know you’re in the middle of treatment. They’ll work with you to determine your eligibility for Continuity of Care. They can also help you complete the request form.
I've been approved for services that start after January 1, 2026. What should I do?
Please contact us at the toll-free number on your Cigna ID card. A Customer Service Advocate will help you get approval for treatment at another hospital in your network. They can also work with you to determine if you’re eligible for Continuity of Care.
What if I am admitted before January 1, 2026, but my stay continues past this date?
As long as we have approved your stay, the services you receive will be covered at the in-network benefit level, even if you stay after January 1, 2026.
What about emergency care?
Your emergency care services will be covered at the in-network level under your plan’s emergency room coverage. Additional services you receive as part of your emergency visit may also be covered at the in-network level, including out-of-network services received during an inpatient admission or outpatient observation stay.
How can I get more information?
We can help you find an in-network provider in your area and help with other transitions, like getting new referrals and prescriptions, and Continuity of Care. Cigna Healthcare customer service advocates are available 24/7/365 at the number on your Cigna ID card or 1 (800) 244-6224. You may also visit myCigna.com® or use the myCigna mobile app. For TRS or TTY services, dial 711 when you call.
