Sanford Health has announced it will exit the network for Medicare Advantage plans from Humana, citing repeated delays in patient care and denial of coverage by the Kentucky-based insurer. This decision, set to affect nearly 10,000 patients in Minnesota, takes effect next year. In an August 23 letter, Sanford Health emphasized, “We have attempted to work with Humana for several years, but unfortunately, we have continued to experience delays in patient care, barriers to scheduling, and denials of coverage causing financial burden and undue stress to our patients.”
Humana responded with surprise, claiming Sanford had not raised these concerns during recent conversations.
“We remain open to working with them on a fair and equitable agreement that keeps health care coverage affordable for our members and avoids the significant disruption that this decision will cause,” the insurer said in a statement. Seniors enrolled in Humana plans will need to decide whether to switch to a new Medicare Advantage plan that includes Sanford Health or remain with their current plan and select different health care providers. They also have the option to revert to the original Medicare program, though without a Medicare Supplement policy, out-of-pocket costs could be substantial.
Sanford to exit Humana network
Sanford Health assured that Humana subscribers would still be able to receive care on an out-of-network basis. “We provide care to all patients, regardless of insurance,” the health system said.
Letters about the network change have been sent to 19,094 patients who had Humana coverage in the past two years, though Sanford estimates the actual number affected may be 4,000 to 5,000 fewer due to decreasing membership at Humana. During the annual Medicare Advantage open enrollment period from Oct. 15 through Dec.
7, seniors will have the chance to review their options and make necessary adjustments to their health plans. Sanford Health’s decision will remain in effect starting January 1, 2025, and the health system will continue to be in-network for Humana until the end of this year.
- StarTribune.”Sanford Health dropping out of Humana Medicare Advantage network, affecting up to 10K Minnesotans”.
- Wabi.”Bangor Woman: ‘Dollars over patients’: Mainers scrambling after Northern Light Health drops Humana Medicare Advantage Plan”.
- BemidjiNow.”SANFORD DROPS FROM HUMANA SENIOR PLAN”.