Updated: August 4, 2025
Important Update: Anthem Agreement Renewed!
Anthem Blue Cross Commercial HMO Contracts will CONTINUE with the DOHC network- uninterrupted!
At Desert Oasis Healthcare (DOHC), our mission has always been centered around you — our patients, our members, and our community. We know how important it is to have access to the doctors and care teams who understand your health history, your needs, and your goals. That’s why we’ve worked tirelessly to preserve your coverage and continuity of care.
We are pleased to share that DOHC has successfully renewed our contract with Anthem Blue Cross, ensuring that you can continue receiving care from the providers and specialists you know and trust. This agreement protects uninterrupted coverage for approximately 8,500 DOHC Commercial HMO members and more than 80,000 additional members across the Heritage Provider Network (HPN).
We deeply appreciate your patience and support during this time of uncertainty. Your health is — and always will be — our top priority.
Updated July 07, 2025
Anthem Blue Cross Commercial HMO Contracts are CHANGING!
You may have recently received a letter from Anthem about our contract termination on August 31, 2025.
After this date, Desert Oasis Healthcare will no longer be in-network with Anthem Commercial HMO plans.
Contact your HR department (employer plans) or insurance broker (individual plans) to explore your options
Anthem Blue Cross Contract Termination- Patient Q&A
General Information
Q: What is happening with my Anthem HMO Blue Cross coverage?
A: Our contract with Anthem Blue Cross is set to terminate on August 31, 2025. This means that after this date, we will no longer be considered an in-network provider for Anthem Blue Cross Commercial HMO plans unless a new agreement is reached.
Q: Will I still be able to receive care at your practice?
A: Yes, you can continue to receive care at Desert Oasis Healthcare until August 31, 2025. However, after August 31, 2025, if an agreement is not reached, DOHC will be considered out-of-network and generally no benefits are available for out-of-network providers for patients with HMO insurance.
Immediate Action Steps
Q: What should I do right now?
A:
- Employer-sponsored plans: Contact your HR department immediately to discuss alternative in-network HMO options
- Individual plans: Contact your insurance broker to explore other plan options
- California Exchange: We are committed to assisting you with selection of a plan that remains contracted with DOHC. Please contact Member Retention at 760-808-8306 or extension 9100 from any of the other DOHC phone numbers
Q: How much time do I have to make changes?
A: You have until August 31, 2025. However, we strongly recommend taking action as soon as possible, as changing insurance plans may have specific enrollment periods and waiting periods.
Coverage and Care Continuity
Q: I have an authorized referral or pre-approved treatment scheduled after August 31, 2025. What happens?
A: Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that existing authorizations will be honored after the contract termination. We recommend:
- Discussing alternative in-network insurance plans with your HR department or insurance broker
- Please note: Changing insurance to a different HMO plan contracted with Desert Oasis Healthcare will not affect your currently authorized services.
Q: What if Anthem and Desert Oasis Healthcare reach a new agreement before August 31?
A: If a new contract is signed before August 31, 2025, your care will continue as normal with full in-network benefits. We will notify all patients immediately if this occurs.
Q: Can I continue seeing my current doctor after August 31?
A: Unfortunately, no, you would need to change to contracted HMO plan.
Insurance and Financial Questions
Q: What are my insurance options?
A:
- Employer plans: Ask your HR department about other HMO options that include our practice in-network
- Individual plans: Explore plans from other insurers through directly with your insurance broker.
- Desert Oasis Healthcare Customer Service: We are committed to assisting you with selection of a plan that remains contracted with DOHC. Please contact Customer Service at 760-320-5134
Q: Will I owe money for services received before August 31?
A: No, services provided while we are in-network with Anthem will be processed according to your current benefits, regardless of when the claim is submitted.
Q: What will out-of-network costs look like?
A: Typically, there are no out of network benefits for HMO coverage with Anthem. You would be responsible for 100% of the charges.
Getting Help
Q: Who can help me understand my options?
A:
- Employer plans: Your HR benefits coordinator
- Individual plans: Your insurance broker or
- Desert Oasis Healthcare Customer Service: 760-320-5134
