BREMERTON – Harrison Medical Center, a part of CHI Franciscan Health, and First Choice Health announced agreement on a new three-year contract providing First Choice members access to all local health care services at Harrison Medical Center at in-network rates. First Choice Health issued a notice of termination to CHI Franciscan for Harrison in July and then both sides agreed to a 30-day contract extension in August to continue negotiations. This new agreement, which becomes effective Oct. 1, 2015, is a benefit to both organizations.

“We are extremely pleased that we have been able to come to an agreement with First Choice Health on a new contract,” said David Schultz, market president for the Peninsula Region of CHI Franciscan. “This contract allows our patients to have uninterrupted access to all the providers and services Harrison Medical Center has to offer and enhances the financial stability of both organizations.”

“(The) agreement with CHI Franciscan Health ensures that First Choice Health members will continue to have access and choice as they seek high quality care at an affordable price for themselves and their families,” said Ken Hamm, CEO of First Choice Health. “We are pleased to have come to an agreement that benefits our members in Kitsap County.”