Highmark, UPMC Extend Contract by One Year

People with Highmark insurance can continue to visit University of Pittsburgh Medical Center medical offices and hospitals at an in-network rate for a little longer.

On Thursday, Highmark and UPMC announced the two entities have agreed to a one-year extension. The contract will be in effect until June 30, 2013.

According to WTAE, UPMC said the agreement "came after discussions led by Gov. (Tom) Corbett and a third-party mediator."

Both entities have been trying to come to an agreement and negotiate a contract for months. However, due to Highmark's takeover of West Penn Allegheny Health System—a direct competitor of UPMC—talks eventually stalled.

Local legislators have been hoping to play a role in urging both entities to come to an agreement since August.

, the state House of Representatives passed legislation spearheaded by state Rep. Tony DeLuca (D-Penn Hills)—his district covers Verona Borough—to help resolve the conflict between UPMC and Highmark. House Bill 2052 directed the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center to negotiate with Highmark on a contract.

Legislators Frank Dermody (D-Oakmont) and Jay Costa (D-Forest Hills) also had UPMC and Highmark to negotiate a reasonable agreement.

Highmark stated the involvement of state legislators was "instrumental in helping to achieve this position," according to the WTAE article.