Highmark Inc. and Blue KC announce affiliation agreement

Blue KC selects Highmark to enhance member value and community health, strengthen provider partnerships and drive long-term growth

Kansas City, Mo. (December 11, 2025) — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City (Blue KC), the leading local not-for-profit health insurer in the Kansas City region, today announced plans to affiliate with Highmark Inc., a not-for-profit health insurer and the nation’s fifth largest Blue Cross and Blue Shield plan. This affiliation is aimed at accelerating innovation and improving health outcomes for members. It is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

For more than 85 years, Blue KC has served the Kansas City area and surrounding communities. This affiliation is a significant step toward Blue KC’s long-term growth and expanding the value it delivers to its members, employers, providers and the broader community.

Under this affiliation, Blue KC remains a locally governed, not-for-profit company in Kansas City and gains access to new technology, capabilities and resources. Blue KC will maintain its local leadership, and, through this affiliation, will strengthen its capacity to offer accessible and affordable healthcare for members and the community for years to come.

“Highmark and Blue KC have both proudly served their communities and improved the health of generations of families,” said David Holmberg, Chief Executive Officer of Highmark Health. “Our affiliation is a natural fit because we share a strong commitment to employees, a community-focused culture and a vision for making healthcare simpler, personalized and accessible.”

Blue KC initiated a rigorous evaluation process with expert advisors to identify a partner that could support operational efficiencies, add new capabilities and help manage rising healthcare costs. Highmark was chosen based on its proven capabilities, shared values as a not-for-profit, mission-driven healthcare plan and track record of successful affiliations with other regional plans.

“Blue KC’s affiliation with Highmark strengthens our legacy of building healthier Kansas City communities,” said Erin Stucky, Blue KC Chief Executive Officer. “We explored a number of opportunities to build on our commitments to the Kansas City region and be responsive to market needs. Our evaluation process was comprehensive, and we are confident Highmark is the right partner to help us deliver greater value for our community.”

Across its diversified businesses, Highmark brings industry-leading expertise in provider engagement, population health, technology and data analytics. These are capabilities that will directly benefit the broader community including Blue KC’s employees, members, customers and providers.

Highlights of the affiliation include:

• Blue KC will continue as a locally governed, not-for-profit company headquartered in Kansas City.
• Blue KC will continue to use its local brand.
• Blue KC will continue its unwavering support for the community.
• Financial reserves and earnings remain at Blue KC, ensuring continued local reinvestment.
• Highmark will provide administrative capabilities, leading technologies and innovative tools to enhance Blue KC’s product offerings and operational efficiencies.

“In a rapidly changing healthcare landscape, affiliating with Highmark positions us to innovate faster and deliver deeper value,” added Jenny Housley, President of Blue KC. “What will not change is our commitment to our employees and the Kansas City community. We have always believed in the power of collaboration, and this affiliation demonstrates our commitment to building a stronger future together through meaningful partnerships that multiply our strengths and amplify our impact.”

Together, Blue KC and Highmark will serve nearly eight million members nationwide. Both organizations are recognized for their strong member service, collaborative provider relationships, and dedication to community health.

“At Highmark, we have developed diverse, market-leading solutions to improve outcomes, reduce costs and drive growth,” said Deb Rice-Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Diversified Businesses for Highmark Inc. and Chief Growth Officer. “Through this portfolio, we have partnered with leading Blues organizations from across the country. We are thrilled to affiliate with Blue KC and collaborate with their employees to create remarkable health experiences for the local community, their providers and unlock new opportunities.”