Contract Between USA Health and UnitedHealthcare Has Expired: What Policyholders Need to Know

The contract between USA Health and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) has officially expired, creating uncertainty for thousands of policyholders who depend on the network for medical care. The expiration affects patients who rely on key USA Health facilities—especially Providence Hospital—and could lead to higher out-of-pocket costs unless they take timely action.

Below is a simple breakdown of what happened and what UHC members must understand moving forward.



What Happened?

USA Health and UnitedHealthcare were unable to reach a new agreement regarding reimbursement rates for medical services. As a result:

  • Providence Hospital is no longer in-network for UnitedHealthcare’s commercial, exchange, and Medicare Advantage plans.
  • The contract expiration became effective November 15, 2025.
  • Negotiations reportedly broke down due to a requested rate increase that UHC did not accept.
  • Other USA Health facilities remain in-network, but patients should verify each provider individually.

What This Means for Policyholders

1. Higher Costs for Non-Emergency Care

If you visit Providence Hospital for non-emergency services, you may now face:

  • Out-of-network deductibles
  • Higher coinsurance
  • Larger out-of-pocket bills

Even routine appointments or scheduled procedures could now cost significantly more.

2. Emergency Coverage Still Applies

Under federal law, UHC must cover emergency room care, even at out-of-network hospitals.

However:

  • Follow-up care
  • Hospital admissions after stabilization
  • Non-emergency procedures
    may still be billed at out-of-network rates.

3. Some USA Health Facilities Are Still In-Network

It’s important to note that only Providence Hospital is affected by the contract expiration. Other USA Health clinics and services remain in the UnitedHealthcare network—but coverage varies by plan.

Always confirm the network status of:

  • A specific clinic
  • A specific doctor
  • The service you need

What You Should Do Now

✔ 1. Contact UnitedHealthcare

Call the member services number on your insurance card and ask:

  • Is Providence Hospital out-of-network under my plan?
  • What will my out-of-network charges be?
  • Which hospitals and providers nearby are still in-network?

✔ 2. Check Your Current or Upcoming Appointments

If you have scheduled procedures or ongoing treatment at Providence Hospital:

  • Ask UHC about continuity-of-care options.
  • Request assistance transitioning to an in-network provider if necessary.

✔ 3. Know Your Options Before Scheduling Non-Emergency Care

If your care is not urgent, confirm costs ahead of time.
Switching to an in-network facility may save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.