Navigating healthcare coverage can be complex, especially when insurance networks change unexpectedly. Recent developments involving United Healthcare in New Jersey and Pennsylvania have significant implications for patients relying on Axia Women’s Health providers. Understanding your options and actions you can take is essential to maintaining access to your healthcare services during this transition. This guide provides comprehensive information about the situation, including steps for continuity of care, alternative insurance options, and ways to voice your concerns effectively.
Attention Patients in NJ and PA with United Healthcare Insurance
Over the past year, we have been actively working to reach an agreement with United Healthcare to ensure uninterrupted access to in-network care for our patients. Regrettably, United Healthcare has prioritized their corporate profits over maintaining a broad network of trusted providers, including Axia Women’s Health. This decision has led to the withdrawal of our providers from their network, creating significant disruptions for many patients.
Effective April 1, 2024, Axia Women’s Health providers in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania will no longer be part of United Healthcare’s network. This change requires patients to explore alternative options to continue receiving in-network care. We are committed to supporting you through this process, including assisting with the necessary paperwork for Continuity of Care, which allows eligible patients to maintain in-network benefits temporarily. However, it’s important to note that approval for continued coverage at in-network rates ultimately rests with UnitedHealthcare.
We remain dedicated to advocating for your healthcare needs and hope for future negotiations to restore network access. In the meantime, we encourage you to take proactive steps such as contacting UnitedHealthcare directly, applying for Continuity of Care, or exploring other insurance plans available in your state. For clarity on recent communications from UHC, please refer to the official resources linked below.
What Can I Do Now?
Taking immediate action can help you preserve your access to necessary healthcare services. We advise you to reach out to United Healthcare via the contact details on your insurance card or through their social media channels. Sharing your concerns can influence negotiations and policy decisions.
- United Healthcare on Facebook
- United Healthcare on Instagram
- United Healthcare on X (Twitter)
When communicating with UnitedHealthcare, express your disappointment regarding the recent network reductions and emphasize how these changes affect your access to essential women’s health services. For example, you might say:
- “I am concerned about the removal of Axia providers from your network, which disrupts my ongoing care.”
- “The loss of over 300 women’s healthcare providers impacts access for many women in our community.”
- Use the hashtag #keepmyOBGYN if sharing your story on social media.
If you have insurance through your employer, we recommend discussing these concerns with your benefits manager to seek alternative solutions.
Ensuring Continuity of Care During Transition
Federal law guarantees continued in-network coverage for pregnant patients until postpartum care is complete. If you are currently pregnant, we will assist you in submitting the necessary Continuity of Care paperwork to ensure your ongoing care remains covered at in-network rates. These forms must be received by UnitedHealthcare no later than April 30, 2024.
For patients receiving behavioral health services through LinqCare, your coverage will continue at in-network rates without additional paperwork. Similarly, patients scheduled for or undergoing non-elective surgeries or post-surgical treatments will be supported in applying for Continuity of Care to avoid treatment disruptions. Most pre- and post-operative appointments before March 31, 2024, should be covered under in-network benefits, provided the paperwork is submitted on time.
Copies of the required Continuity of Care forms are available below. We encourage patients to visit our care centers so our staff can assist with completing and submitting these forms correctly.
- Form for Patients Insured Under New Jersey Policies
- Form for Patients Insured Under Pennsylvania Policies
- Form for Self-Funded Employer Plans
- Form for Patients with UMR Plans
Exploring Alternative Insurance Plans by State
We work with many other major insurers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania to ensure you have options. If you are insured under New Jersey policies, review the available alternatives to maintain in-network care:
Commercial Plans >>
Aetna (Standard, Open Access: PPO, HMO, EPO, Managed Choice POS, Aetna Signature Administrators, Meritain Health, Trustmark, Aetna Saving Plus, Aetna Whole Health, CVS EPO)
Amerihealth
Cigna
Coventry Healthcare / First Health
Emblem Health
Horizon
Humana
Magnacare
Prime Health Services
Oscar Health
QualCare
US Family Health Plan
Medicare Plans >>
Aetna Medicare
Cigna Medicare
Clover Health (Medicare Advantage)
Humana Medicare Advantage
Interesting:
Railroad Medicare
WellCare (Medicare)
Medicaid Plans >>
Aetna Better Health
Horizon NJ Health
Amerigroup
WellCare Family Plan
For Pennsylvania policies, consider these options:
Commercial Plans >>
Aetna (PPO/HMO/EPO)
Highmark BCBS
Horizon BCBS
UPMC Health Plan
CVS Health
Cigna
Coventry Healthcare / First Health
Humana and others.
Medicare Plans >>
Aetna Medicare (PPO/HMO)
Humana Medicare Advantage
Geisinger Medicare
HealthPartners Medicare
Medicaid Plans >>
Keystone First
Health Partners Medicaid
UPMC for Kids
To explore more about how artificial intelligence is reducing operational costs in healthcare, contact your care center for specific plan acceptance. Additionally, for insights into the evolving landscape of healthcare technology, see decoding the acronym what does app stand for in healthcare.
Conclusion
While recent changes to United Healthcare’s network may seem challenging, understanding your rights and options can help you maintain the quality of your care. Acting promptly to submit necessary paperwork, voice your concerns, and explore other insurance plans can minimize disruptions. We remain committed to supporting you through these transitions and advocating for improved access to women’s health services in your community.