Insurance Challenges in Greene and Webster Counties
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A few weeks ago, we discussed the ongoing Marketplace Health Insurance Enrollment. Unfortunately, Cox HealthPlans has announced that it will no longer provide insurance for residents of Greene and Webster counties.
This change specifically impacts those using the Affordable Care Act marketplace.
One local woman, facing cancer, is feeling particularly lost. “I didn’t realize how much hair could fall out,” said Carrie Netzer, laughing lightly despite her situation.
Even with cancer, her spirit remains strong. “We all thought beanies would be fun. I have a few left, but not that many. My granddaughter has more hair in her braids than I do,” she mentioned.
Recently, doctors discovered that her cancer had returned. “I have cancer in my mouth and part of my pelvis,” Netzer shared.
She is currently being treated by a team at CoxHealth. “They’ve been really supportive. They’re helping me heal,” she stated.
However, her healing process is now in jeopardy. With CoxHealthPlans discontinuing policies for Greene and Webster counties next year, Netzer may have to switch to Mercy for her insurance. “Mercy is also a wonderful hospital, but I really don’t want to change doctors during my treatment. I’ve built trust with my doctors,” she explained.
Christy Huddleston of Premier Choice, who assists people with registration, expressed her frustration: “Why can’t they reach an agreement to provide insurance for these individuals?”
Huddleston added, “If she wants to keep her health insurance, she essentially has one option: move. But why should she have to do that?”
CoxHealth chose not to provide an on-camera interview but released a statement highlighting their position: “Financial dynamics beyond our control have placed CoxHealth in a difficult position… We will continue to offer plans in neighboring counties such as Lawrence and Barry.”
They also acknowledged the potential impact: “We understand how this change may affect many of our neighbors and are actively working on solutions for coverage in 2027.”
Huddleston encouraged immediate action: “If you can view this situation now, please do so and support those in need.” As for Netzer, she holds on to her faith regarding the future. “I strongly believe in God’s plan, and I just want to be close to my family,” she commented.
Recently, we reached out to CoxHealth to follow up on our interview with Carrie Netzer but were directed back to the earlier statement.
CoxHealth’s Statement on Marketplace Insurance
“The healthcare landscape is facing considerable disruptions. The financial challenges impacting CoxHealth have led to difficult choices regarding our marketplace health plans in Greene and Webster counties. Each year, Cox HealthPlans assesses its offerings based on guidelines from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Current evaluations have led us to limit our 2026 Marketplace plans specifically for these areas. This situation isn’t exclusive to us; many insurance providers nationwide are reassessing their plans amid rising costs and market instability. While we will continue to offer individual marketplace health plans in counties like Lawrence and Barry, we are committed to finding sustainable solutions for coverage moving forward.”
