Important Information for UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Members
Brown Health and United HealthCare have mutually agreed not to renew our hospital contract for their Medicare Advantage product, with the exception of United’s Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP). This means that as of July 1, 2025, all of Brown Health’s Rhode Island hospitals (Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro, The Miriam Hospital, and Newport Hospital) will be considered "out of network" for members of United’s Medicare Advantage product.
What You Need to Know
Please note that this does not impact Brown University Health hospitals in Massachusetts.
1. Physician Services Are Still In-Network
If you see a Brown Health physician or use urgent care services, nothing changes. Physician services remain in-network for all patients through June 2026.
2. Hospital Costs May Increase for Some UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Members
If you have a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan, you may pay higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital services at Brown Health after Tuesday, July 1.
Contact UnitedHealthcare at 1-800-711-0646 or visit United’s website to understand your specific coverage and financial responsibility.
3. No Impact on Other Insurance Types
This change does not affect patients with:
- UnitedHealthcare Commercial plans
- UnitedHealthcare Medicaid plans
- UnitedHealthcare’s Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) Medicare Advantage plan)
All services remain in-network for these insurance types.
4. Medicare Open Enrollment Options
You can change your Medicare plan during the annual enrollment period (October 15 to December 7).
Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for help with your options.
5. Continuity of Care May Be Available
Some patients may qualify for temporary protections to continue receiving care at Brown Health hospitals.
Call UnitedHealthcare to find out if you are eligible.
6. Why This Change Happened
Brown Health aimed to reach an agreement that provided fair reimbursement and less administrative burden for patients. Unfortunately, an agreement could not be reached, and both organizations decided not to renew the contract.