HealthPartners, a prominent healthcare provider, has announced plans to withdraw from the Medicare Advantage plan offered by UnitedHealthcare starting in 2025. This decision will affect approximately 30,000 patients and marks a considerable shift in the relationship between the two healthcare giants.
A potential coverage gap is anticipated for the affected patients, many of whom are senior citizens or people with disabilities. Their displacement from the Medicare Advantage plan necessitates a search for new healthcare providers, potentially leading to higher insurance costs and disturbances in regular care.
This decision by HealthPartners introduces a renewed uncertainty regarding the future stability of Medicare Advantage schemes. As other providers may also consider following suit, there is a legitimate concern for further disruptions in the healthcare sector.
HealthPartners has pledged to facilitate a seamless patient transition to new healthcare providers and plans. Meanwhile, there is a call for the affected individuals to evaluate their healthcare options and consult healthcare professionals prudently.
The surprising decision highlights the fluctuations within the healthcare realm and the significant toll corporate verdicts can have on patient care.
HealthPartners’ 2025 Medicare plan exit
Additionally, these developments have illuminated recurring issues with increased payment delays and denials under UnitedHealthcare’s plan. HealthPartners argues that this problem is disproportionately larger than those seen with other insurance providers.
UnitedHealthcare has strenuously denied the accusations, insisting they have always prioritized patient health and wellbeing. It has pledged to cooperate with any investigations into its operations.
Before making the decision, HealthPartners negotiated with UnitedHealthcare to reach a compromise. Terms of cost and patient services emerged as sticking points, and despite the protracted talks, the agreement could not be reached.
Patients under the Medicare Advantage plan will continue to receive in-network services, including from clinics such as Park Nicollet and related hospitals, till the end of 2024. UnitedHealthcare maintains its goal of securing a resolution to uphold its in-network partnerships, ensuring continued accessibility of services.
UnitedHealthcare expressed disappointment over the withdrawal of HealthPartners, refuting the allegations and affirming a commitment to secure a continued provision of network access to HealthPartners.
