Dear Supporters: Victory! We did it! Sutter Health and Blue Shield have signed a contract that will cover the next two years. Sutter Health wrote to me personally on my Facebook page confirming the new deal with Blue Shield. Although the extension only covers 2 years, it will allow many policyholders to make more informed decisions about their healthcare and insurance coverage. Although there were only 229 signatures, I know both companies heard us loud and clear. They felt our anger. I would like to thank everyone who shared a story or posted a message. It was disheartening to see how the negotiations were disrupting your lives. I am glad this issue is finally settled and we can move forward with important medical decisions. Hopefully, you won't hear from me in December of 2016 when both parties come back to the table for new negotiations. Thank you again for your support. -Jane P.S. Please expect to see the follow letter from Sutter Health: Dear Valued Patient, We understand the bonds you have created with your Sutter Health doctor and care team—and the importance of continuing to partner together. Our not-for-profit Sutter Health network is pleased to have reached agreement with Blue Shield of California on a new contract that preserves your access to our doctors and care centers. The new two-year agreement applies to all Blue Shield products in which Sutter Health providers historically participated, including HMO, PPO and those offered through Covered California. There will be no lapse in coverage for you, or any of our patients. Most patients need not take further action. If you are an HMO patient who asked Blue Shield to switch you to a different primary care physician or if Blue Shield assigned you to a non-Sutter Health doctor without your permission, please ask the insurance company to reassign you to your Sutter Health doctor. You may call the number on the back of your Blue Shield ID card or 1-800-200-3242. Please know that we sincerely regret any frustration you may have experienced over the last couple of weeks. Thank you for choosing Sutter Health and continuing to trust us with your care. If you need more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions at sutterhealth.org/blueshield or you may speak with a PAMF customer service representative by calling 1-844-729-2833 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Sincerely, Richard Slavin, M.D. Chief Executive Officer Palo Alto Medical Foundation