For patients with Aetna health care coverage, Community Healthcare System and the insurance provider are extending their existing agreement till Oct. 1.

The two parties had been unable to come to an agreement as of early December and coverage was expected to end Jan. 15.

But the health care system issued a statement this week, saying “there will be no disruption of services for patients with Aetna insurance who seek care with Community Healthcare System.”

The extension includes services at Community Hospital in Munster; St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago; St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart; Community Stroke & Rehabilitation Center in Crown Point; Community Care Network Inc.; Hartsfield Village; Community Home Care; and St. Mary Home Care.

Patients were encouraged to contact Aetna with further questions.