“For the time being, Ascension-Seton remains non-participating in our traditional network because it charges substantially higher than market rates to provide care for Curative members.” – John Bock, Vice President of Sales
Network Updates and Expansion of Curative Cash Card Services
I’m writing to provide an update on a network change in the Austin metro area involving Ascension-Seton. Curative is taking action to ensure members have access to care with no copays and no deductibles by expanding the use of the Curative Cash Card (formerly Curative Zero Card) at this health system.
What’s new:
- Members can now use the Curative Cash Card for inpatient and outpatient hospital services at Ascension-Seton.
- No prior authorization is required for these services when using the Curative Cash Card.
- This applies to all members, regardless of their benefit plan—EPO and PPO included.
- Includes payment for covered inpatient hospital services not previously available for payment on the Curative Cash Card.
How it works:
- Members present their Curative Cash Card at check-in and state they are paying cash.
- Curative covers the cost directly; members pay $0 out of pocket.
- Our Member Services team is standing by to support members with any access issues.
Eligible services for Curative Cash Card include:
- Office visits
- Urgent care
- Behavioral health
- Outpatient hospital services (like imaging or procedures)
- Inpatient hospital services (like surgeries and medical monitoring)
We are communicating this expanded availability to our members and are providing a link to an FAQ for additional information. Note that any provider designated as “Cash Card” in the Provider Search is eligible.
For the time being, Ascension-Seton remains non-participating in our traditional network because it charges substantially higher than market rates to provide care for Curative members. We continue efforts to negotiate a fair and mutually beneficial contract to bring this system back in-network as soon as possible. As you know, these negotiations take time, but we will keep you informed as new developments arise. Curative is the only health plan with a ready solution to access care during contract negotiations like this through the use of the Curative Cash Card.
We apologize for any inconvenience related to this issue. We are taking action because we believe it is critically important to keep costs in check for the benefit of both our clients and members, so Curative’s industry-leading solution remains affordable well into the future. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or specific client concerns.
