BOSTON — November 17, 2011 — Tufts Medical Center, its community physician network, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts are committed to reaching agreement on a new Blue Cross contract. Leadership of the organizations have spoken today and agreed to continue discussions and use a third-party during this process. Both organizations are dedicated to negotiating a contract that ensures our members and patients can continue their relationships with their doctors and their health plan.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (www.bluecrossma.com) was founded 74 years ago and is now the largest private health plan in the state, providing coverage to nearly 3 million members. BCBSMA believes in working with physicians, hospitals, employers and the broader community to provide quality, affordable health care in Massachusetts. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.