RED BUD, IL – State Representative David Friess (R-Red Bud) is welcoming an agreement
reached between BJC HealthCare and Aetna that will preserve in-network access to BJC
hospitals, physicians, and providers for Illinois state retirees enrolled in the Aetna Medicare
Advantage plan through the Total Retiree Advantage Illinois (TRAIL) program throughout 2027.
In an official letter sent to state legislators, BJC confirmed that the one-year transition
agreement was signed by BJC and Aetna on November 6, following negotiations that began after BJC met with leaders from the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS)
on October 28. The agreement addresses concerns surrounding BJC’s previously announced decision to end its contract with Aetna Medicare Advantage effective December 31, 2026.
On October 23, Rep. Friess joined fellow members of the Illinois General Assembly in sending a letter to BJC, Aetna, and CMS seeking answers and urging all parties to return to the negotiating table to prevent disruptions in care for retired state employees.
“I’m pleased to hear BJC and Aetna were able to reach an agreement to ensure that state
retirees will maintain access to the doctors and hospitals they rely on throughout 2027,” said Rep. Friess. “Our retirees should not have to worry about losing access to their health care providers. I appreciate BJC and Aetna coming together to address the concerns raised by legislators and our constituents.”
According to BJC, the agreement applies specifically to Illinois state retirees enrolled in Aetna Medicare Advantage through the TRAIL program. BJC will be sending letters to those retirees notifying them of the one-year agreement.
“While this agreement is certainly a positive step, it only provides a one-year solution,” Friess added. “We need to make sure our retirees have reliable access to the care they depend on and are not left facing this same uncertainty again next year. I will continue working with my colleagues to find a more permanent solution and make sure our retirees have options when it comes to their health care coverage.”
For questions or media inquiries, please contact Rep. Friess’ District Office at 618-282-7284.