Anthem and Sentara to Negotiate Contract Renewals
The health insurance providers aim to reach a new agreement by December 31 to prevent coverage disruptions in Virginia.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Healthcare
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Anthem and Sentara are currently negotiating a contract renewal that would set new coverage terms beginning in January 2027. The current insurance agreements are set to expire on December 31, 2026.
Why it matters
Anthem is working to finalize a contract that maintains stable member care while resisting a 30% cumulative rate increase over three years requested by Sentara. Both organizations are currently in the midst of an open enrollment period for Medicare, Medicaid, and ACA plans.
Sentara has requested a 10% annual cost increase for commercial business plans, totaling a 30% cumulative rise over a three-year period. Anthem officials have characterized this proposed increase as unaffordable.
The players
Anthem
Anthem is a major health insurance provider that operates extensive coverage networks throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Sentara
Sentara is a prominent healthcare system that serves as a key provider in negotiations for insurance coverage and patient care services.
The details
Sentara has withdrawn from negotiations regarding specific Medicare, Medicaid, and ACA plans, though Anthem has established a microsite to assist members with potential care transitions. Anthem is also directly contacting patients currently undergoing ongoing medical treatment to address concerns regarding continuity of care.
Timeline
December 31, 2026: Current insurance contracts between Anthem and Sentara are scheduled to expire.
January 2027: New contract terms are scheduled to take effect.
Market Landscape
This negotiation highlights the tension between health systems and insurers as they operate under the regulatory requirements of the Affordable Care Act. The outcome will influence the competitive landscape for network access across Virginia as providers balance rising operational costs against plan affordability.
There are no changes to existing insurance coverage for patients before the end of 2026. Members enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or ACA plans should monitor communications from Anthem regarding the potential for future changes to their network providers.
The takeaway
Patients currently undergoing treatment should remain in contact with their provider to stay informed about potential network shifts. Consumers should continue using their existing plans as scheduled while negotiations for the 2027 contract year remain ongoing.
What happens next
The current insurance agreements are set to expire on December 31, 2026, which serves as the primary deadline for the active contract negotiations.
Further reading
For more context on regional medical coverage, visit Virginia Healthcare.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Whsv.
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