Humana's members now get access to Dignity Health facilities in Arizona

Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM), one of the nation's leading health and well-being companies, has reached an agreement that provides its members access to Dignity Health facilities in Arizona.

The new network agreement, which takes effect May 1, 2014, includes Humana's Medicare Advantage (including PPO, HMO and Private Fee for Service plans), employer groups and individual plan members.

"This agreement provides our Arizona members with access to Dignity Health's network of respected facilities and health care providers," said Victoria Coley, Arizona and Nevada Market Vice President for Humana's Employer Group segment. "Through this partnership, we've been able to substantially increase health care options for our members who live in the East Valley and, soon, the West Valley."

"Humana has a strong Medicare Advantage presence in Arizona. Expanding our network to include Dignity Health will offer our members a strong provider network and is key to our continued growth in the market," said Brendan Baker, Arizona Market President for Humana's Senior Products.

Humana members will have in-network access to St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, including Barrow's Neurological Institute; Chandler Regional Medical Center; Mercy Gilbert Medical Center; and the soon-to-open St. Joseph's Westgate Medical Center. Members will also have access to Dignity Health's network of nearly 200 physicians and its care centers in Arizona, including two specialty hospitals, six surgery centers, four urgent care centers and 30 imaging centers.

"We have always been dedicated to high-quality patient care and to making the entire health system work better for patients and their families," said Carolyn Pace, Vice President of Managed Care at Dignity Health in Arizona. "We are pleased to be able to respond to the health care needs of Humana members at our numerous care centers."