UnitedHealthcare Commercial (Employee-Sponsored Plans

Though Medical Center Hospital has been negotiating in good faith with United Healthcare, we have been unable to reach a responsible agreement.

We cannot, in good conscience, agree to a contract that reimburses our hard-working physicians and healthcare providers almost 60% less than other physicians and nearby hospitals for providing the same care.

Which United Healthcare plans are affected?

All UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored or commercial plans and Medicare Advantage plans will be considered out of network with MCH facilities and providers after December 31, 2023, unless an agreement is reached.

Is my MCH physician’s in-network status affected?

If no agreement is reached, all MCH physicians will be considered out of network with UnitedHealthcare after December 31, 2023.

What if I have ongoing care for a condition such as pregnancy, cancer care or other chronic illness?

Even if MCH goes out of network with UnitedHealthcare, some patients who have been receiving care from an MCH physician for a long-term or chronic condition may still be covered at in-network rates by UnitedHealthcare through a program called “Continuity of Care.” Those patients who qualify for continuity of care benefits receive short-term, temporary coverage for their condition. It is important to know that only UnitedHealthcare can approve continuity of care benefits.

• To qualify, patients should request a continuity of care form and forward it to UnitedHealthcare for preauthorization.
• We will do our best to assist patients in filling out the required continuity of care form, but UnitedHealthcare will insist on preauthorization.
• Medical services will not be covered at in-network rates unless UnitedHealthcare has approved continuity of care benefits.

What You Can Do

If you want to continue receiving in-network care from MCH, help us advocate for you.

• It is important to know that nothing will change before December 31, 2023. You should keep any scheduled appointments and continue to see your MCH providers as normal.
• Call UnitedHealthcare at the number on the back of your health insurance card. Ask UnitedHealthcare to reach a new agreement that maintains your plan as in-network with MCH and protects the relationship you have with your physician.
• If you receive your health insurance through your employer, talk to your human resources representative and ask them to talk to United Healthcare on your behalf.