Important Information for UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Members
Brown Health and UnitedHealthCare have not renewed our hospital contract for their Medicare Advantage plan, with the exception of United’s Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) and Institutional Special Needs Plans (ISNP).
Brown Health aimed to reach an agreement that provided fair reimbursement and less administrative burden for patients. While we made every effort to reach a fair agreement, UnitedHealthcare ultimately chose to end negotiations.
This means that as of July 1, 2025, all of Brown Health’s Rhode Island hospitals (Rhode Island Hospital/Hasbro Children’s, The Miriam Hospital, and Newport Hospital) are considered "out of network" for members of United’s Medicare Advantage plan.
What You Need to Know
Please note that this does not impact Brown University Health hospitals in Massachusetts, which remain in network.
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 with United Healthcare’s:
- Commercial plans
- Medicaid plans
- Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) Medicare Advantage plan)
- Institutional Special Needs Plans (ISNP)
All services remain in-network for these insurance types.
4. 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.