DULUTH — Some Aspirus facilities may fall out of network with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota by the end of the year if a “more fair and equitable agreement” is not reached, according to the nonprofit health system.

Like many health care providers across the industry, Aspirus St. Luke's stated that it faces inflationary pressures, Medicaid cuts and a challenging labor market.

Aspirus St. Luke’s sent a letter July 25 notifying patients that the cost of care its providers deliver exceeds reimbursements received from BCBSMN under the current contract, which is set to expire Dec. 31.

Blue Cross manages the largest network in Minnesota, including 97% of all providers throughout the state. Contracts are routinely negotiated and typically resolved before the renewal deadline. A new c

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