Children’s Health Network Status as of June 6, 2026
PROVIDERS: Please check back frequently for updates.
Effective June 6, 2026
After five months of negotiation, Parkland Community Health Plan (PCHP) and Children’s Health have been unable to reach a new agreement. As a result, Children’s Health hospital and facility locations will be out-of-network for PCHP STAR and CHIP members starting June 6, 2026.
This includes:
- Children’s Medical Center Dallas
- Children’s Medical Center Plano
- Select specialty, outpatient, imaging, and surgery center locations
PCHP appreciates the partnership and collaboration with our provider network. We remain committed to supporting access to high-quality care for the children and families we serve, while maintaining a strong and sustainable provider network for our members.
Care Direction and Facility Selection
PCHP does not require referrals for members to see specialists. However, providers play an important role in directing patients to appropriate facilities and sites of care.
- Use in-network facilities whenever clinically appropriate
- Services performed at Children’s facilities starting June 6 may:
- Be considered out of network
- Require prior authorization
- Be reimbursed at Medicaid/CHIP out-of-network rates
Providers are encouraged to begin directing patients to in-network facilities when clinically appropriate.
In-Network Care Options
PCHP maintains a broad pediatric network across North Texas, including specialty and subspecialty care. Use our online search tool to find the right provider for your PCHP patients (NOTE: Children's Health providers may still be included in the search results but will be removed soon).
Provider Relations is also available to assist with identifying appropriate in-network options. Email PCHP.ProviderRelations@phhs.org.
When Out-of-Network Care May Be Appropriate
If a medically necessary service is not available within the PCHP network, use of an out-of-network facility, including Children’s Health, may be considered.
In these cases:
- Prior authorization may be required
- Requests will be reviewed based on medical necessity and network availability
- Care coordination teams are available to support appropriate access
Providers are encouraged to contact PCHP in advance to discuss options and obtain necessary approvals.
Continuity of Care
PCHP will support continuity of care for up to 90 days starting June 6, 2026, for members currently receiving treatment at affected Children’s locations.
This includes:
- Active treatment plans
- Inpatient stays prior to June 6
- Post-surgical follow-up
- Complex conditions requiring ongoing specialty care
If transition planning is needed, PCHP will work with providers to ensure safe and appropriate care transitions.
Authorizations and Claims
Bottom Line for Providers
- Children’s Health facilities are out of network starting June 6
- No referral is required, but facility selection matters
- Use in-network facilities whenever clinically appropriate
- Request prior authorization for care provided at affected Children’s Health facilities starting June 6
- Continue current care — PCHP will support a 90-day transition period
- Reach out early for support with complex or specialty cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still send patients to Children’s Health doctors and facilities?
Yes; however, beginning June 6, affected facilities will be out of network. When selecting a facility for services, in-network options are recommended to avoid authorization issues and ensure continuity of care.
See “In-Network Care Options” above for guidance when in-network services are not available.
What should I do when a specialist is in-network but the facility is out-of-network?
In some cases, a participating specialist may practice within a facility that may be out of network starting June 6, 2026.
- The professional services provided by the in-network specialist will continue to be covered as in-network.
- However, facility-based services (such as procedures, imaging, use of the facility) will be considered out-of-network and may require prior authorization.
Providers should consider the site of service when planning care and, when appropriate, direct services to in-network facilities to avoid authorization issues or out-of-network billing scenarios.
As a reminder, balance billing is prohibited for covered STAR and CHIP services.
What should I do for patients currently receiving care at Children’s?
Continue care as clinically appropriate. PCHP will support continuity of care for up to 90 days and assist with transition planning if needed. Reassure your patients that they do not need to change plans to receive care.
What happens to existing authorizations?
All services authorized prior to June 6 will be honored by PCHP. After that date, services at out-of-network facilities may require new authorization.
Will emergency services at Children’s still be covered?
Yes. Emergency services are always covered regardless of network status.
What if my patient needs to continue care at Children’s after the 90-day period?
PCHP will evaluate options including continued care requests, Single Case Agreements, or transition to in-network providers.
How do I request a Single Case Agreement?
Contact Network Relations: PCHP.ContractingDepartment@phhs.org
Are there alternative pediatric specialists in-network?
Yes. PCHP maintains a strong pediatric network across multiple specialties.
Contact Provider Relations for assistance with locating network providers: PCHP.ProviderRelations@phhs.org
What happens to Children’s Health facility claims on or after June 6?
Claims for affected facilities will:
- Require authorization when applicable
- Be processed under out-of-network rules (unless approved through Continuity of Care)
- Be reimbursed at Medicaid/CHIP FFS rates
Who can I contact for help?
Provider Services: 1-888-672-2277 (Monday–Friday, 8 am to 5 pm)
Provider Relations: PCHP.ProviderRelations@phhs.org
Care Coordination / Exceptions: PCHPUMCaseManagement@phhs.org