White River Health negotiating with UnitedHealthcare as March 31 deadline nears

As a March 31 deadline approaches, White River Health says it is actively negotiating with UnitedHealthcare to reach what it calls a fair and sustainable agreement that preserves patient access across the region.

White River Health said that if a new contract is not finalized by March 31, UnitedHealthcare could move the health system out of network, a change that could lead to higher costs for patients.

The health system said care will continue uninterrupted through March 31. Patients covered by UnitedHealthcare commercial plans or Medicare Advantage plans are encouraged to review their options ahead of the deadline.

Medicare Advantage members can make changes during Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, which runs through March 31, 2026. During that window, patients may work with a licensed broker to select a plan that includes in-network access to White River Health for 2026.

Patients are also encouraged to contact UnitedHealthcare using the number on the back of their insurance card to express the importance of continued access to White River Health.

Those who are pregnant or managing chronic conditions may request Continuity of Care from UnitedHealthcare. If approved, patients may be allowed to continue receiving care at White River Health after the contract ends. While the hospital cannot submit those requests on a patient’s behalf, staff members can provide guidance on the process.

Patients with employer-sponsored insurance are advised to speak with their human resources departments about available options and the importance of maintaining access to White River Health.

More information is available at whiteriverhealth.org/UHC or by calling the White River Health patient support team at 870-262-3777.