Clashing health giants

There is naturally some antagonism between providers (who understandably want to be paid more) and insurers (who understandably want to pay out less). Kaiser Health News highlighted some conflicts between large provider networks and large insurers.

Payment schedule contracts can last a year or longer, and given the volume, a few percentage points can mean a lot for either side. Unfortunately, patients do not always know whether they will be able to keep their doctors until after the open enrollment period has passed, meaning that they have imperfect information. Regardless of which side might "win" a given negotiation, the consolidation of provider networks and insurers can result in deteriorating markets.