If no agreement is reached by May 31, BayCare Health System doctors, hospitals and services could move out of network for many UnitedHealthcare members starting Monday, June 1, 2026.
The first deadline applies to UnitedHealthcare employer-sponsored commercial plans, UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans and United Behavioral Health, also known as Optum. A later deadline applies to Medicaid members. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Florida members could be affected starting June 15, 2026, if the two sides do not reach a deal.
BayCare and UnitedHealthcare both say they want to avoid disruption for patients. Negotiations are still active, but the two sides have not announced a new agreement.
Both UnitedHealthcare and BayCare Health System have established and maintained microsites for their members.
Patients with UnitedHealthcare coverage should call to verify benefits for any scheduled procedures or appointment on or after June 1. They can also call the number on the back of their insurance card to confirm which deadlines apply, and to apply for continuity of coverage if they believe they are eligible.
Source: Fox 13 News