The health system has indicated that a contract is in the process of being finalized and signed. However, details about the new agreement, which was established on November 26, have not been disclosed by a spokesperson.
According to their website, “Tufts Health Direct patients will get updated notifications about their ability to continue accessing South Shore Health services after December 31, 2025.”
A spokesperson from Point32 Health mentioned on Monday that the insurer is in the process of informing the members affected by this situation.
“We are glad to have come to an agreement with South Shore Health,” the spokesperson commented. “This agreement should be signed in the next few days and will encompass all our plans.”
Despite this agreement with Point32, South Shore Health is still engaged in contract negotiations with UnitedHealthcare.
The health system has extended its contract with UnitedHealthcare for employer-sponsored plans until February. However, for those enrolled in United Medicare Advantage plans, it appears that a resolution may not be reached. Currently, about 3,900 patients within United’s Medicare Advantage plans have been notified about a potential termination.
If no agreement is reached regarding the Medicare Advantage plan, South Shore Hospital and the South Shore Visiting Nurse Association will transition to out-of-network status starting January 1. From May, the health providers at the medical center will also be considered out of network, and urgent care services at the Health Express clinics will follow suit around mid-October.
South Shore has noted on its website that “if you were set to receive care based in South Shore Hospital—like scheduled surgeries, lab tests, or radiology services—your appointment will now be canceled” after December 31, 2025.
Some patients, including pregnant women or those undergoing cancer treatment, might still receive treatment for a limited period, subject to the insurance company’s discretion.
“Members enrolled in our network of Medicare Advantage plans will maintain access to a broad network of providers throughout Massachusetts,” the insurer stated. “If you are a UnitedHealthcare member and need help locating another hospital within our network, please reach out to the contact number on your health plan ID card.”
