Humana has announced a shared network agreement that may allow Cigna DPPO plans to be treated as in network under Humana fee schedules beginning November 1, 2025. This agreement applies only in specific contracting scenarios and requires careful review to avoid unintended fee downgrades.
This page explains how the agreement works, who it affects, and when action is required.
What the Humana–Cigna Agreement Does
Under this agreement, Cigna DPPO may be considered in network under a practice’s Humana fee schedule if the practice has a direct contract with Humana and does not have a direct contract with Cigna.
This agreement does not automatically apply in all situations and does not guarantee pickup.
Practices With Direct Contracts With Both Humana and Cigna
If a practice has direct contracts with both Humana and Cigna, no action is required.
Direct contracts override shared network agreements, and each carrier will continue paying under its own fee schedule.
Direct Contract With Humana Only
If the practice has a direct contract with Humana and is out of network with Cigna:
If the practice does not mind Cigna being picked up under Humana fees
No action is required. Cigna DPPO may automatically become in network under the Humana fee schedule.
If the practice does not want Cigna picked up under Humana fees
The practice must opt out with Humana before the effective date.
Opting out does not change the existing Humana contract. It only prevents Cigna from being added under Humana fees.
Direct Humana Contract With Cigna Through Another Shared Network
If the practice has a direct Humana contract and is receiving Cigna through another shared network agreement:
Compare the current Cigna fee schedule to the Humana fee schedule
If Humana fees are lower, Cigna may drop the current path and pay under the lower Humana fees
In this situation, opting out with Humana is recommended
Without an opt-out, Cigna may choose the lowest-paying available path.
Direct Humana Contract With No Current Cigna Participation
If the practice has a direct Humana contract and is currently completely out of network with Cigna:
Cigna DPPO may be pulled in network under Humana fees
If the practice wants to remain out of network with Cigna, an opt-out is required
How to Opt Out With Humana
Practices can opt out by sending a written request to dentalservices@humana.com.
The opt-out notice should include:
Practice name
Tax ID
NPI
A statement requesting to opt out of Humana’s shared network agreement with Cigna
Practices should sign the request and follow up to confirm it has been processed.
Important Considerations
Opt-outs are not terminations
There is no guarantee of pickup under shared network agreements
Failure to opt out may result in unintended fee downgrades
Summary
The Humana picking up Cigna shared network agreement may cause Cigna DPPO plans to be treated as in network under Humana fees for certain practices. Offices with direct Humana contracts should carefully review current Cigna participation and submit opt-outs when necessary to avoid unintended reimbursement changes.
