CommercialAdministrativeMedium impact
2026 Commercial Networks and Benefit Plans and Evolving Bridge Program
EmblemHealth·NY·Provider News
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
EmblemHealth is streamlining its Bridge Program for 2026 by removing ConnectiCare providers and replacing them with Cigna Healthcare PPO Network or First Health/QualCare combinations for out-of-state care. A new NYC Employees PPO plan will use EmblemHealth's Bridge Program locally and UnitedHealthcare's Choice Plus network outside the 13 lower NY counties.
Action Required
Before January 1, 2026: Billing team must update provider network verification processes to check Cigna Healthcare PPO Network or First Health/QualCare instead of ConnectiCare for EmblemHealth members receiving out-of-state care. For NYC Employees PPO members, verify coverage through either EmblemHealth Bridge Program (13 lower NY counties) or UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network (outside these counties). Update eligibility verification workflows to use the new UMR portal for NYC Employees PPO plan administration.