HARRISBURG — The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and Highmark are agreeing to another extension on a regional health care contract that will keep the groups’ hospitals and doctors in the insurance network through the end of 2014.

Gov. Tom Corbett made the announcement today.

The dispute over in-network coverage began when Highmark, Pennsylvania’s largest health insurer, announced a $475 million takeover of the troubled six-hospital West Penn Allegheny Health System last June.

UPMC said that made Highmark a direct competitor to its system of about 20 hospitals.

Under pressure from state lawmakers and the Corbett administration, the groups had previously agreed to a one-year contract extension that expires June 30, 2013.

The companies say the additional extension gives them time for patients to make arrangements regarding their care.

By The Associated Press