MILWAUKEE, Wis. (WBAY/WISN) – Ascension Wisconsin confirms terminated its in-network relationship with UnitedHealthcare. The contract between the healthcare provider and insurer expired at midnight Oct. 1, WISN 12 News reports.
The split impacts patients with UnitedHealthcare commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid plans seeking care at Ascension Wisconsin hospitals, outpatient facilities, and physician practices.
“The reimbursement rates UnitedHealthcare proposed do not adequately account for the significant financial pressures facing healthcare providers, including unprecedented inflation, and rising costs for equipment and medications,” an Ascension Wisconsin spokesperson told 12 News.
Patients with UnitedHealthcare insurance can still receive care from Ascension Wisconsin providers on an out-of-network basis, which typically involves higher out-of-pocket costs. Both organizations indicate they remain open to further negotiations.
Ascension Wisconsin’s press release:
“Ascension Wisconsin has been engaged in negotiations with UnitedHealthcare for several months in an effort to reach a fair and sustainable agreement that supports continued access to quality care for the UnitedHealthcare Commercial, Medicare and Medicaid members we serve. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to come to terms that reflect the rising cost of delivering care in today’s environment.
“As a result, effective October 1, 2025, Ascension Wisconsin is no longer in-network with UnitedHealthcare. This impacts patients receiving care at our hospitals, outpatient facilities and physician practices, as well as associated practices of Ascension Medical Group.
“Over the past several years, our caregivers have worked through extraordinary challenges to continue delivering compassionate, quality care, while health insurers like UnitedHealthcare have posted record profits.
“The reimbursement rates UnitedHealthcare proposed do not adequately account for the significant financial pressures facing healthcare providers, including unprecedented inflation, and rising costs for equipment and medications. These pressures are straining the healthcare system nationwide, and we must ensure we have the resources necessary to maintain and advance the high standards of care our patients expect and deserve.
“We recognize this change may be disruptive and concerning for our patients. We are committed to helping those affected understand their options and continue accessing the care they need. Patients may still be able to receive care from Ascension Wisconsin providers on an out-of-network basis or may have additional choices during open enrollment.
“While our current agreement with UnitedHealthcare has not been renewed, our commitment to delivering compassionate, quality care to the communities we serve remains unchanged. We continue to believe that fair, sustainable insurance contracts are critical to the long-term health of our patients and the healthcare system—and we remain open to resuming discussions with UnitedHealthcare should they be willing to engage in a way that supports that goal.”
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