Does Wellstar Accept Blue Cross Blue Shield? Here's What the New Agreement Means

Yes—Wellstar Health System and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield have just extended their partnership through May 2027, confirming that over 350,000 Georgia members can continue accessing care across Wellstar’s extensive network without interruption.

What Changed with the New Contract?

Wellstar and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield finalized a four-year extension of their healthcare collaboration, significantly impacting residents throughout Georgia, particularly in the metro-Atlanta region and across north and middle Georgia. The renewal ensures continuity of affordable, quality healthcare services for Anthem members seeking treatment at any Wellstar facility.

The Full Scope of Wellstar Services Now Available to Anthem Members

Members enrolled in Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans gain access to Wellstar’s comprehensive healthcare infrastructure. This includes care across 11 hospitals, 325+ medical office locations, 35 imaging centers, 11 specialized cancer centers, 91 rehabilitation facilities, 18 urgent care clinics, nine pediatric centers, and five health parks.

With approximately 3,900 physicians and 30,000 clinical and administrative staff, Wellstar delivers services designed to meet diverse healthcare needs. The partnership particularly emphasizes pediatric care, leveraging Wellstar’s collaboration with Augusta University Health System (now known as Wellstar MCG Health) and the Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

Why This Matters for Georgia Residents

Robert Bunch, President of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, emphasized that such strategic partnerships are essential for addressing healthcare affordability. “We’re committed to providing our members with stable, long-term access to quality care while working creatively to keep costs manageable for families and employers,” Bunch stated.

For Wellstar’s part, Jim Budzinski, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, reinforced the system’s mission: “As a nonprofit built from community hospitals, we’re dedicated to improving how we deliver care while strengthening the communities we serve. This extended agreement reflects our commitment to that vision.”

Beyond the Contract: Wellstar’s Expanded Role

The partnership gains additional significance with Wellstar’s recent integration with Augusta University Health System. This unified entity, operating as Wellstar MCG Health, focuses on investing in modern medical infrastructure, strengthening ties with rural hospitals, and expanding digital health services. These initiatives complement the core contract benefits, providing Anthem members with access to advanced clinical services across a growing network.

About the Organizations

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia operates as an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, serving hundreds of thousands of Georgia residents with comprehensive health coverage options.

Wellstar Health System operates as a nonprofit healthcare organization with a presence across Georgia. Beyond hospital and clinic services, Wellstar maintains three hospice facilities and one retirement community, reflecting its commitment to comprehensive, lifetime care for the communities it serves.