Grand Rapids-based Priority Health, the second-largest health care plan in the state, has formed a strategic alliance with Connecticut-based Cigna. Priority says the partnership will make comprehensive health care coverage more affordable and accessible to Michigan employers and their employees. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
The alliance will offer a network solution for employer groups in the state, leveraging the capabilities of each organization and the strength of their provider relationships. The partnership will offer coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2021.
Cigna clients and customers will have access to Priority’s network of providers, which includes 97 percent of primary care physicians in Michigan, a variety of specialists, and access to the majority of hospitals, labs, and ancillary care services in the state.
Priority members who live, work, or travel outside of Priority’s service area will have access to Cigna’s national network of doctors, specialists, hospitals, labs, and facilities around the country.
“We are excited to bring this expanded Cigna partnership into market, which offers a competitive network solution and highlights our shared capabilities for more affordable, comprehensive health care coverage that best serves employers, their employees, and their families,” says Rick V. Morrone, senior vice president of employer solutions for Priority. “Our team is continuously looking for ways to provide more value, and this enhanced strategic alliance with a trusted partner is a natural next step.”
Priority and Cigna have worked together since 2018 to provide network solutions for Michigan employers that have a national footprint, which continues to be an area of growth for Priority. The partnership leads to a more coordinated approach and a more consistent and streamlined network experience for Cigna members in Michigan and Priority’s out-of-state members.
“This strategic alliance with one of the fastest growing networks in the state will give greater choice to employers and will help us achieve our goals of improving whole person health and providing access to more affordable, predictable, and simple health care for our Michigan clients and customers,” says Brian Marsella, Midwest market president for Cigna. “Working together in partnership, we will also focus on improving community health in Michigan.”
Priority and Cigna will continue to work with Upper Peninsula Health Plan to provide network access in the Upper Peninsula.
Priority has been in business for more than 30 years. It serves more than 1 million members annually.
Cigna is a global health service company with sales capability in more than 30 countries and jurisdictions. It has more than 170 million customer relationships around the world.
