Dixie County Responds to Humana’s Decision

Residents, healthcare workers, and officials in Dixie County are voicing their frustration following Humana’s announcement about cutting ties with Andrews Healthcare Consulting. Many believe that this move, which will reduce Medicaid funding, will worsen the already limited healthcare access in North Florida and endanger patients’ lives.

One patient, Alisa Ware, expressed her discontent, saying, “Humana should be ashamed of themselves.” Meanwhile, Daryan Brown, the local fire chief, highlighted potential consequences for emergency services. He mentioned that rising diesel costs and a limited patient capacity might hinder their ability to respond effectively to emergencies. “I handle four trucks and receive around 6,000 calls yearly. The math adds up quickly,” Brown explained.

For residents in rural areas like Dixie County, reaching a hospital can take up to three hours. Without a local facility like Andrews Healthcare, ambulances might spend more time on lengthy trips instead of being available for urgent local emergencies. Brown remarked on the challenge: “Every patient poses significant concerns, but in a severe emergency, we may not have the resources to respond adequately.”

Logan Andrews of Andrews Healthcare Consulting pointed out that these cuts seem to be part of Humana’s strategy to steer patients toward their Centerwell primary care network. “This exemplifies their effort to centralize resources and limit patient choices,” he claimed, adding, “It all comes down to money.”

Andrews and his team offer home care to numerous patients in the region, which many community paramedics argue reduces the need for unnecessary hospital visits. Alison Stevens, a paramedic in Dixie County, shared her thoughts, saying, “Logan is the only one who comes to people’s homes and provides personalized care. Some patients won’t seek help until it’s nearly too late. You can’t put a price on that.”

Andrews voiced concerns about growing tensions due to Medicaid cuts, mentioning how rural providers are struggling. “Honestly, the root of this issue lies in numerous Medicaid reductions and the companies becoming overly large,” he said, noting that Humana’s ownership by United Healthcare exemplifies the situation.

Patients fear losing their connection with Andrews, someone many consider a trusted provider. One patient reflected on their past struggles, stating, “I had cancer last year, and he helped me through. I really value Humana, but my loyalty lies with Logan.” Others echoed similar sentiments, worried they would have no alternatives. A longtime patient named Wanda emphasized the importance of Andrews’ availability during a family emergency: “He was there for us when my husband had a heart attack in 2019.”

Madeleine Kelley Chewning, who oversees psychiatry services at Andrews Healthcare, warned that this decision could have dreadful consequences for mental health care in the region. “Growing up here, I’ve witnessed the fallout from a healthcare desert, especially in psychiatry. These patients will be left with no options,” she cautioned.

Residents have taken action by emailing and calling Humana, urging the company to maintain Andrews’ services. Alisa Ware lamented the potential strain on families already facing healthcare challenges, sharing her frustration with what she perceives as dishonesty from Humana. “If he wasn’t here, I’d be under tremendous stress. I have a significant problem with what they’re doing,” she stated.

Local leaders and healthcare providers continue to advocate against these changes, though residents are concerned about losing essential care as the proposed cuts unfold. “If we lose this service, the impact will be severe,” Stevens added.

In response, Humana stated that even with the end of its agreement with Andrews Healthcare, they still offer a network of quality hospitals and providers in the area. They encourage affected members to reach out for assistance in finding a new healthcare provider.

The termination is expected to take effect on January 1, 2026. Despite the lack of clear reasons behind the contract termination, Andrews and community leaders remain determined to fight for continued local healthcare options.