DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — The clock is ticking for Aetna and Duke to reach a deal. If they can't, local families could be forced to pay out of pocket for care.

The battle over money is now putting patient health on the line, including thousands of state employees.

The State Health Plan's Board of Trustees met Friday to discuss the matter and help state employees who use Duke Health possibly find other providers if Duke and Aetna can't come to an agreement in the coming weeks.

"As of this moment, we do not think they are close to an agreement," said State Treasurer Brad Briner during Friday’s board meeting.

Aetna is the third-party administrator for state employees, which means those who go to Duke Health for treatment could be affected by the dispute.

According to Duke Health, in 2024, le

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