February 10, 2026
Despite extensive efforts to reach a fair resolution, Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), part of Jefferson Health, has been unable to secure an agreement with UnitedHealthcare that honors previously established rates and contractual expectations. As a result, effective January 26, 2026, LVHN is out of network for UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members—a decision that is already disrupting care for our patients across the Lehigh Valley region.
Jefferson Health has worked tirelessly and in good faith to avoid this outcome, including pursuing legal remedies after United imposed reimbursement cuts that violate the existing agreement. Unfortunately, United refused to engage constructively, placing patients—particularly those with serious and life-threatening conditions—in an untenable position.
The impact was immediate and alarming. In the days following United’s decision, LVHN physicians identified cancer patients whose treatment plans were suddenly at risk. Among them were 34 patients with upcoming chemotherapy appointments that were jeopardized because United declined to ensure continuity of care. LVHN requested that United work collaboratively to protect these vulnerable patients, but those requests were denied.
As a result, many Medicare Advantage members are now being forced to delay treatment, pay out of pocket, or navigate the stressful process of finding new insurance plans—often in the middle of critical care. This disruption undermines trust and places unnecessary emotional, physical, and financial strain on patients and their families.
Jefferson Health remains committed to prioritizing patient health and well-being and wants patients to understand their options. Patients receiving care for serious or complex conditions may qualify for United’s Continuity of Care programs, which can allow them to continue seeing their LVHN care teams.
Importantly, emergency care at LVHN emergency rooms will always be treated as in network, regardless of contract status. Patients in the Lehigh Valley region experiencing a medical emergency should seek care immediately at the nearest emergency department.
We are deeply disappointed that UnitedHealthcare has chosen a path that puts corporate priorities ahead of patient care.
Patients are encouraged to contact UnitedHealthcare and advocate for contracts that protect access to their trusted LVHN doctors and hospitals—because patients deserve continuity, compassion, and care without disruption.
