The change, effective Dec. 15, could affect about 1,000 patients in South Mississippi. The U of South Alabama said it was surprised about the decision.
For patients living on the Mississippi Coast, seeking similar services U of South Alabama offers, such as a level 1 trauma center and level 4 neonatal intensive care, could mean a two and a half hour drive to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. Alternatively, U of South Alabama is about a 45 minute drive from the Mississippi Coast.
In a written statement to the Clarion Ledger, UnitedHealthcare said it is “ensuring the long-term strength and stability of our Community Plan in Mississippi” and that the insurer “continuously monitor[s] the performance of our network providers and occasionally make[s] changes.”
More articles on payers:
CMS sanctions UnitedHealthcare plan: 3 things to know
UnitedHealth posts $5B profit in Q3
UnitedHealth, Optum offer care + coverage under new package
