Lovelace Hospital may go out-of-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield

Patients may need to find new in-network providers if a deal is not reached by June 1.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:54am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph revealing the internal structure of a hospital building, with glowing blue-green lines representing the building's framework and medical equipment.An X-ray view of the internal workings of a hospital, highlighting the delicate balance between providers and insurers that can disrupt patient care.Albuquerque Today

Lovelace Hospital's clinics and providers in Albuquerque, New Mexico may soon be out-of-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield customers if a new contract is not reached by the June 1 deadline. Lovelace says Blue Cross Blue Shield pays it less than other health systems, leading to claim denials and delays. Patients may need to find new in-network providers, though some may qualify to keep their current care for a limited time.

Why it matters

This potential change could disrupt continuity of care for many Blue Cross Blue Shield customers in the Albuquerque area who receive treatment at Lovelace facilities. Patients may face higher out-of-pocket costs or need to switch providers if Lovelace goes out-of-network.

The details

Lovelace Hospital says it wants to remain in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, but believes the insurer pays it less than other health systems in the area. This has led to claim denials and delays as part of the current contract agreement. The deadline for a new contract is June 1, after which Lovelace's clinics and providers could go out-of-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield customers.

  • The current contract between Lovelace Hospital and Blue Cross Blue Shield expires on June 1, 2026.

The players

Lovelace Hospital

A healthcare provider with clinics and hospitals in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

A major health insurance company that provides coverage to customers in New Mexico.

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What’s next

If a new contract is not reached by June 1, Blue Cross Blue Shield customers in Albuquerque will need to find new in-network providers for Lovelace Hospital services. Some patients may qualify to continue their current care with Lovelace for a limited time.

The takeaway

This potential change highlights the ongoing tensions between healthcare providers and insurance companies over reimbursement rates, which can disrupt patient access to care if contract negotiations break down. Patients may need to be prepared to switch providers or pay higher out-of-pocket costs if Lovelace goes out-of-network for Blue Cross Blue Shield.