UNC Health-Cigna Contract Dispute Leaves 65,000 Members Facing Out-of-Network Costs

As of December 1, 2025, UNC Health and Cigna have not reached a new contract agreement, leading to Cigna subscribers facing out-of-network charges when using UNC Health providers and hospitals. The previous contract expired, affecting approximately 65,000 Cigna members across North Carolina, who must now choose between locating new in-network providers or incurring significantly higher out-of-pocket costs. UNC Health advises patients to explore alternative insurance options and contact Cigna for guidance. The contract impasse revolves around negotiations where UNC Health seeks terms consistent with its arrangements with other insurers, while Cigna expresses willingness to extend the existing agreement. Both parties report ongoing discussions in pursuit of a fair resolution, but no new deal has been finalized. UNC Health has communicated potential continuity-of-care provisions for certain patients undergoing active treatments, though eligibility requires contacting Cigna directly and completing necessary procedures. This disruption presents challenges for patients dependent on UNC Health's services, especially those with ongoing or chronic conditions who may face logistical and financial hurdles in transitioning to different care providers. The lack of an agreement highlights broader industry trends around network negotiations, cost pressures, and patient access continuity. Insurers, providers, and employers face operational complexities from such disputes, including managing open enrollment implications and addressing member concerns about losing trusted care teams. The scenario emphasizes the importance of clear communication and contingency planning among stakeholders to mitigate patient impact when network affiliations change. Overall, the UNC Health and Cigna contract stalemate underscores the critical dynamics between healthcare providers and payers in balancing cost control, network inclusivity, and patient care continuity, all vital for regulatory compliance and quality patient outcomes in the evolving insurance market.