UnitedHealthcare Negotiations
TriHealth + UnitedHealthcare: What You Need to Know
TriHealth’s contract with UnitedHealthcare is set to expire after December 31, 2025. Without a new agreement in place, TriHealth hospitals, outpatient centers, and physicians may be out-of-network for patients with UHC employer-sponsored and Medicare Advantage health plans.
Negotiations between health systems and health plans are commonplace, but our existing relationship with UnitedHealthcare falls short of what it takes for us to deliver better care, better health, and better value for our community. To-date, TriHealth saves greater Cincinnati more than $100M on healthcare costs—with improved health outcomes.
For months, we’ve asked UnitedHealthcare to join us in keeping our model of care sustainable, just as other major commercial insurers have done. So far, they’ve refused but we’re hoping we can still find common ground.
Our Goals:
- Fair reimbursement that covers the actual cost of care, so we can continue prioritizing patient wellness and disease prevention over sick care.
- Less administrative red tape so TriHealth medical staff spend more time on patient care, not paperwork.
For now, nothing changes in your care with us. But without improved partnership from UHC, that care could be disrupted—and patients, progress, and our community could bear the cost.
What You Can Do
- Call UnitedHealthcare. Use the number on the back of your insurance card and let them know that continued access to TriHealth’s care is important for you.
- Talk to your HR manager. If you are insured through your employer, they may be able to advocate on your behalf and speak directly with UnitedHealthcare. They may be able to also help you explore plan options that include TriHealth in-network for the next benefit year.
- Talk to a licensed broker. Medicare eligibles can speak with a licensed health insurance broker heading into the upcoming open enrollment period, running from Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, 2025. You deserve the right plan—one that guarantees in-network access to TriHealth in 2026. Find plans that guarantee in-network access to TriHealth here.
- Stay informed. Visit this page or call our patient support team at (513) 853-2100 if you have questions about our negotiations or want to know the status of our relationship with UnitedHealthcare.
Continuity of Care Protocols
What is continuity of care?
Some patients with certain medical needs who are impacted by our negotiations with UnitedHealthcare may be able to request temporary in-network access to TriHealth, regardless of our network status with UnitedHealthcare after December 31. This extended access will only be available for a limited time, as determined by UnitedHealthcare.
Applying for continuity of care
Patients who may qualify to continue receiving in-network care at TriHealth, contact UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Member Services directly to request Continuity of Care coverage.
It is important to know:
- UnitedHealthcare is solely responsible for reviewing and determining eligibility for extended in-network access under Continuity of Care.
- Call the number on the back of your UHC insurance card and ask to speak with someone regarding Continuity of Care.
- UHC may request clinical information to support their review, and patients should be prepared to discuss ongoing treatment needs.
- The deadline to initiate a Continuity of Care request is January 30, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions