Highmark and Blue KC Receive Regulatory Approvals to Close Affiliation

KANSAS CITY, MO — Highmark Inc. (Highmark) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC) today announced they have received regulatory approval to affiliate from the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance and expect the deal to close on March 31. This affiliation, initially announced in December, is aimed at accelerating innovation and improving health outcomes for Blue KC members across the Kansas City region.

“This approval underscores our commitment to employees, a community-focused culture, and a vision for making healthcare simpler, personalized and accessible,” added David Holmberg, Highmark Health CEO. “This partnership will also provide new capabilities to support growth and product expansion in the Kansas City region.”

While the affiliation has been approved, integration is expected to take place over a phased period of time. Nothing is changing immediately for members and partners of either organization. We are committed to updates as the integration advances.

“Today’s approvals are a significant step forward for our organization and the communities we serve,” said Jenny Housley, Blue KC President. “By bringing our two health plans together, we are strengthening our ability to serve our members, health care providers and employees in our region. We thank the Director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance and her team for their review of the application and support of the affiliation. We look forward to continued innovation and service for our local community.”

Under this affiliation, Blue KC will be a locally governed, nonprofit company in Kansas City and gain access to new technology, capabilities and resources. Blue KC will maintain its local leadership and, through this affiliation, will enhance its capacity to offer accessible and affordable healthcare for members and the community for years to come.

“With regulatory approval secured for our affiliation with Highmark, we are excited to begin this next chapter for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City,” said Anne St. Peter, Blue KC Board Chair. “Our Board has great confidence in Jenny Housley as she steps into the role of President. Her deep understanding of our organization and her tireless commitment to the health and vibrancy of our Kansas City community position us well for continued growth and impact. Our board also extends our gratitude to Erin Stucky for her exceptional leadership and dedicated service. Erin has guided our organization with integrity, innovation, and heart, and we thank her for a job exceptionally well done.”

Together, Blue KC and Highmark along with their health plan affiliates will serve nearly eight million members nationwide. Both organizations are nonprofits and are recognized for their strong member service, collaborative provider relationships, and dedication to community health. With this affiliation, Highmark becomes the third largest overall Blue Cross Blue Shield-affiliated organization in the country.