WAOPS has signed onto a national letter led by the AOA urging Anthem to rescind a new Facility Administrative Policy: Use of a Nonparticipating Care Provider, scheduled to take effect January 1, 2026 in multiple states.

The proposed policy would impose a 10% reimbursement reduction on hospitals when out-of-network physicians provide care to Anthem members at in-network facilities. Continued use of nonparticipating physicians could even result in removal from Anthem’s network.

WAOPS has joined this effort because the policy raises significant concerns about:

• Compliance with federal protections under the No Surprises Act

• Threats to the viability of independent physician practices

• Reduced access to care—especially in rural and underserved communities

WAOPS stands with the AOA and state affiliates in opposing this policy, emphasizing that patient access and continuity of care should not be jeopardized by network contracting restrictions.

The joint letter calls on Anthem leadership to withdraw the policy and engage in dialogue with physician organizations to ensure patient-centered solutions.

WAOPS will continue to monitor developments and advocate on behalf of Wisconsin physicians and their patients.

You can read the entire letter here.