Status of contract negotiations with Spokane OB/GYN

As part of its negotiation process, Spokane Obstetrics and Gynecology (Spokane OB/GYN) has issued a termination notice to LifeWise Health Plan of Washington, effective September 15, 2025. LifeWise is working with Spokane OB/GYN to renegotiate our contracts, which impact all LifeWise Health Plan of Washington plans. 

These contracts include the following providers and facilities:

• Spokane OB/GYN Downtown Spokane (Sacred Heart Doctors Building)

• Spokane OB/GYN Spokane Valley (Valley Mission Professional Building)

• All providers, including specialists, and other healthcare professionals practicing at Spokane OB/GYN

Our intent with these negotiations is to ensure our members continue to have access to affordable, quality healthcare. As we’ve always said, these negotiations are not about LifeWise; they are about our customers. We serve as their advocate during these discussions.

LifeWise has been working in good faith with Spokane OB/GYN to renegotiate contracts. We’re grateful for the patience of our customers as we work hard with our partners at Spokane OB/GYN to finalize our contracts.

What do I do if I have a long-term treatment plan, am scheduled to deliver a baby, or have a chronic medical condition treated at Spokane OB/GYN?

If you are receiving treatment for a covered serious, complex, or chronic medical condition at any Spokane OB/GYN facility, you may be able to apply for continuity of care benefits. This includes pregnancy, long-term or chronic illness, or scheduled nonelective surgery. If approved, you will be able to continue your care at Spokane OB/GYN at the current in-network benefit level for up to 90 days. Contact our customer service team at the phone number on the back of your member ID card for more information about this process.

I’m currently pregnant and my doctor is at Spokane OB/GYN. Do I have to find a new doctor to deliver my baby?

In general, members that are in their second or third trimester of prenatal care will be allowed to remain with their provider through delivery and the initial post-partum visits (up to 8 weeks). You will need to have an in-network pediatrician to see the baby in the hospital at birth and to provide your baby’s care after discharge from the hospital.

What happens next?

Through September 15, 2025, regardless of the status of ongoing negotiations, you may still receive care from Spokane OB/GYN providers and associated facilities on an in-network basis. Beginning September 16, 2025, if a new agreement is not reached, non-emergency care may not be covered or will cost more out of pocket if you receive care from Spokane OB/GYN providers and facilities.

We will keep you updated as negotiations continue with Spokane OB/GYN. Look for updates right here. If we can’t reach an agreement, or if you want to find another in-network doctor or healthcare professional, we’ll work with you to safely move your care.

If you would like more information on doctors in your area, you can use our Find a Provider or call us at the phone number listed on the back on your ID card.