Lee Health drops United Healthcare insurance as an in-network provider starting in 2027

Lee Health announced on Wednesday that beginning in 2027, Lee Health hospitals and physicians will be out-of-network for UnitedHealthcare customers. According to Lee Health, its hospital and physician contracts with UnitedHealthcare will end on December 31, 2026. This means that on January 1, 2027, Lee Health hospitals and physicians will be out-of-network for affected UnitedHealthcare employer-based, individual, and Medicare Advantage plans. Lee Health urged all patients on UnitedHealthcare to continue scheduling and receiving care through the end of the year, and not to cancel any appointments with Lee Health in 2027 without first understanding the options available. "We did not make this decision lightly," Selynto Anderson, Chief Community Health and Impact Officer, said. "Lee Health tried to avoid ending its hospital and physician agreements with UnitedHealthcare, but ongoing challenges have not been addressed as we remain committed to our tradition of caring for you – our patients." Lee Health recommends patients view a list of Commercial Health Plans that Lee Health is currently contracted with. The list can be viewed here. Lee Health also noted that patients with questions can call the dedicated community information line at 239-320-1234. This is a developing story and will be updated. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.