FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — UnitedHealthcare has launched a new website addressing questions about its ongoing contract dispute with Lee Health as thousands of Southwest Florida patients prepare for potential changes to their health care coverage in 2027.
The new page includes answers to questions about the dispute, including when the current agreement ends, which plans are affected and what options UnitedHealthcare members may have if Lee Health leaves the insurer’s network.
RELATED: WINK News to host Medicare Help Center as 50,000 Lee Health patients face insurance changes
UnitedHealthcare says Lee Health notified the company in late August that it intends to leave UnitedHealthcare’s commercial and Medicare Advantage networks beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
You can read more on the Frequently Asked Questions here.
In a statement on the new website, UnitedHealthcare said it wants to reach an agreement with Lee Health and has made multiple attempts to engage with the health system in negotiations.
The FAQ also addresses continuity of care, emergency care, Medicare Supplement plans, Medicare Advantage group retiree plans and where UnitedHealthcare members could seek care if Lee Health is no longer in the network.
UnitedHealthcare said the information was created to help members prepare in case Lee Health leaves its network.
The dispute has raised questions for Lee Health patients who have UnitedHealthcare coverage, including whether they will need to change plans, find new providers or take other steps before the change takes effect.
Lee Health has previously said its agreement with UnitedHealthcare will end Dec. 31, 2026.
WINK News to host Medicare Help Center
As patients look for answers, WINK News is preparing to host a special live event focused on the insurance changes.
WINK Investigates will host “Coverage in Question” on Monday, Oct. 12, featuring a Medicare Help Center from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
Trained counselors with SHINE — Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders — will be available to answer questions from the community. The service is free and unbiased.
The event comes just before Medicare open enrollment begins Oct. 15.
WINK News previously reported that about 50,000 Lee Health patients could be affected by the health system’s decision to end its contract with UnitedHealthcare.
The UnitedHealthcare FAQ page is one of the latest resources available as patients try to understand what the changes could mean for their coverage and access to care.