When UNC Health and Cigna failed to reach a contract agreement, 60,000+ North Carolina patients were left scrambling. But the deeper lesson isn’t just about one health system — it’s about how downcoding, administrative overload, and payer tactics are threatening revenue and continuity of care nationwide. This post breaks down the real risks, early warning signs, and how providers can proactively protect their revenue and patients before their own contracts are at risk.

Minority-owned healthcare practices face unique RCM barriers that affect cash flow, denials, and compliance. From limited billing technology to payer bias, these challenges cut deep, but they’re fixable. Learn how to strengthen your systems and protect your revenue stability.

As the healthcare industry braces for the implementation of Cigna's new Evaluation & Management (E/M) Coding Accuracy Policy (R49), providers are scrambling to understand its implications. The policy goes into effect on October 1, 2025, which is less than one week away. This policy is more than just a quality-control measure; it's a strategic move that could significantly impact your practice's revenue. Opponents argue that Cigna's R49 policy is also a cost-saving strategy

Starting October 1, 2025, Cigna Healthcare’s R49 downcoding policy is set to catch many practices off guard. These denials are not clerical mistakes; they’re part of a systemic tightening on higher-level E/M codes. Cigna Healthcare will not provide healthcare providers any notice; it happens automatically.

The Hidden Cost of DIY Medical Billing Every denied claim, every delayed payment, every billing error costs your practice real money. While you're focused on patient care, critical revenue opportunities slip through the cracks.