Update on the Network Status of Portneuf Medical Center

Negotiations between Regence BlueShield of Idaho and Portneuf Health have successfully concluded with an agreement. Portneuf Health is no longer out-of-network, and all coverage under the agreement is retroactive to June 15. 

Below is the latest information shared by the Idaho Office of Group Insurance (OGI):

POCATELLO, Idaho (Aug. 15, 2026) – Portneuf Health and Regence BlueShield of Idaho today announced they have reached a new long-term agreement that restores in-network access to Portneuf Health facilities, physicians and advanced practice providers for Regence members.

The agreement means Regence members can once again receive care throughout the Portneuf Health system at in-network rates, helping patients avoid further disruption and continue seeing the healthcare providers they know and trust.

The agreement is retroactive to June 15, 2026, and includes reimbursement updates that support the long-term sustainability of care delivery, as well as operational improvements intended to simplify administrative processes and enhance the experience for patients and providers. Combined, these changes support continued access to high-quality healthcare across Southeast Idaho.

“This agreement is an important step forward for patients who rely on our teams for care,” said Nate Carter, chief executive officer of Portneuf Health. “It restores in-network access, provides greater certainty for patients and families, and establishes a foundation that supports the long-term delivery of high-quality care in our region. We also believe the operational improvements included in this agreement will help create a better experience for patients and caregivers moving forward.”

“We appreciate Portneuf’s willingness to work with us on an agreement that allows our members to continue access to in-network care at Portneuf Health. We are also grateful to the Pocatello community for its patience as we advocated for affordability on behalf of our members and customers,” said Mark Ruszczyk, president of Regence BlueShield of Idaho. “Members who received care while Portneuf Health was out of network can be assured those claims will be covered at in-network rates.”

Patients who have questions about their coverage should contact Regence or visit regence.com for information specific to their health plan. More information about services at Portneuf Health is available at portneuf.org or patients may contact their healthcare provider.

ISU Human Resources appreciates employees' patience throughout this process. If you have questions regarding this update or your benefits coverage, please contact Human Resources at (208) 282-3106 or at benefits@isu.edu.