KALAMAZOO, MI \u2014 Those with UnitedHealthcare policies no longer have to worry about being out of network at Bronson Healthcare facilities. <\/p>\n
The Southwest Michigan healthcare provider and global insurance company announced Tuesday, Dec. 23 that a multi-year agreement has been reached.<\/p>\n
The contract agreement avoids a potential stop in coverage that would have gone into effect for patients on Jan. 1, 2026. <\/p>\n
As a result of the agreement, all Bronson hospitals, outpatient locations and physician offices remain in-network for members enrolled in UHC Commercial and Individual health plans, according to a news release from Bronson. <\/p>\n
\u201cThis agreement represents a shared commitment to offering high quality healthcare that is both convenient and affordable for people in the communities we serve,\u201d said Ryan Horn, Bronson senior vice president and chief revenue officer.<\/p>\n
The deal ensures uninterrupted access to care at Bronson for patients across Southwest Michigan, providing coverage at the following hospitals:<\/p>\n
Bronson Methodist Hospital in KalamazooBronson Battle Creek HealthBronson Lakeview Hospital in Paw PawBronson South Haven Hospital<\/p>\n
Contract negotiations such as these are a routine and help ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed fairly for provided care, a Bronson spokesperson stated. <\/p>\n
\u201cNot-for-profit health systems like Bronson must operate with a positive margin in order to continue reinvesting in our workforce, equipment and technology, and to continue delivering top quality care,\u201d the spokesperson stated. \u201cWe appreciate the community\u2019s trust and patience throughout this process, and we thank our providers for their continued dedication to providing exceptional care.\u201d<\/p>\n
The agreement continues coverage for people enrolled in employer-sponsored and individual commercial plans, UHC officials stated in a separate news release.<\/p>\n
Members enrolled in UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans, including Group Retiree and Dual Special Needs Plans, as well as UnitedHealthcare Community Plans in Michigan (Medicaid) will also continue to remain in-network with Bronson and will have uninterrupted access to the health system\u2019s providers and hospitals.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur priority is to provide the people we serve access to quality, affordable health care from the doctors and care providers they know and trust, and this agreement accomplishes that goal,\u201d a UHC spokesperson stated. <\/p>\n
Letters are in the process of being mailed to members who were previously notified of the contract negotiations, informing them of the renewed relationship with Bronson, and that its facilities, hospitals and physicians remain in-network.<\/p>\n