New Jersey's largest hospital system is dropping the state's largest health insurer, Hackensack, Meridian Health, this week terminated Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield from its network, meaning millions of residents could potentially be left scrambling for in-network hospital coverage come spring.

According to Horizon, the two sides have been working for over a year to reach a new agreement on prices for services and care.

Hackensack officials previously said Horizon's proposals for reimbursement rates were inadequate and demanded major changes to contract terms they'd already agreed upon.

But both parties are still hopeful they'll reach a deal.

Newark, based Horizon insurer's more than 3.8 million people across the state, while Hackensack reaches just as sprawling with 18 hospitals and more than 500 patient care locations.

If the contract is terminated, Hackensack physician groups like Primary care and specialty doctors would be exempt.

The decision also wouldn't affect members covered by Braven health, Medicaid or Medicare.