Mayo Clinic Exits Medicare Advantage Networks for Major Insurers in 2026

ROCHESTER, Minn. – Beginning in 2026, Mayo Clinic will no longer participate in the networks of certain Medicare Advantage plans offered by two of the largest insurance companies in the United States.

Both United Healthcare (UHC) and Humana have confirmed that they will halt specific Medicare Advantage plans for patients at Mayo Clinic starting January 1, 2026.

UHC noted that while employer-sponsored Medicare Advantage Group retirement plans will still be accepted at Mayo facilities, individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage or dual special needs plans may need to explore other options to continue care at Mayo.

“We’ve established a multi-year agreement ensuring that individuals enrolled in UnitedHealthcare’s employer-sponsored commercial plans and Medicare Advantage Group Retirement Plans will maintain network access to Mayo Clinic. However, starting January 1, 2026, locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa will not be in-network for our Medicare Advantage Individual Plans and Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNPs). Those looking to access Mayo Clinic should consider their options as the Medicare annual enrollment period approaches.”

Mayo Clinic typically doesn’t engage with most Medicare Advantage plans but has stated it is “dedicated to addressing the needs of patients requiring our services.”

“Mayo Clinic engages in traditional Medicare (Parts A, B, and D) and Medicare Supplemental plans. A considerable amount of our daily patient care is provided to those with Medicare coverage. We do engage with select contracted Medicare Advantage plans, but generally, we are out of network for most.”

“We want to ensure that patients who seek care at Mayo Clinic during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period verify their coverage within their Medicare Advantage plan prior to the next year’s enrollment.”

Humana echoed these changes but seemed to partially attribute the situation to Mayo Clinic citing high reimbursement rates as a burden on the health care system.

“Beginning January 1, 2026, Mayo Clinic will no longer be an in-network provider for Humana Medicare Advantage members. Affected members have been informed of the updates. We offer personalized support to ensure our members continue receiving necessary care. Those with questions can contact Humana’s customer support using the number on their insurance card.”

“Humana is committed to ensuring that our members have access to high-quality, affordable care. However, when providers demand significantly higher reimbursement rates compared to Original Medicare, it places additional pressure on the healthcare system. This often leads to increased costs for patients, which is reflected in the rising Medicare Advantage premiums in Minnesota.”

Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, serves as a private alternative to the federally funded Medicare program. While these plans are managed by private organizations, they must comply with federal regulations and offer coverage similar to Original Medicare. Typically, seniors aged 65 and older can choose between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.

This announcement arrives as the Medicare open enrollment period kicks off, running from October 15 to December 7.

The timing also coincides with nationwide discussions on healthcare costs, influenced by one of the longest government shutdowns in U.S. history. Senate Democrats continue to oppose House Republicans’ temporary funding legislation, mainly due to escalating healthcare expenses, pushing for expanded health subsidies set to expire at the year’s end.

“This signifies that Democrats are earnestly advocating for measures to assist individuals facing rising health insurance costs,” stated Senator Tina Smith (DFL-Minnesota) in a recent interview. “In the 1st Congressional District, health insurance premiums are increasing by about $225 monthly, and many constituents from southern Minnesota report they can’t afford it.”

In contrast, Senate Republicans assert that the government needs to reopen immediately, generally resisting the inclusion of healthcare initiatives in any stopgap agreements. Senate Minority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, mentioned he would propose extending Affordable Care Act subsidies post-shutdown in exchange for resolving the impasse, although he couldn’t guarantee passage. Democrats responded that they wouldn’t proceed until they felt assured of success.

“The Democratic Party won’t accept a straightforward resolution,” Thune remarked.

Former President Donald Trump has conveyed similar sentiments, indicating he is open to discussions on healthcare but agrees with Thune that any negotiations should come after the shutdown concludes.

This matter has garnered attention at the national political level. In interviews, Minnesota Senate Majority Leaders Erin Murphy (DFL, St. Paul) and Liz Boldon (DFL, Rochester) expressed their worries regarding the upcoming changes.

Boldon, who is a nurse, shared that the changes resonate personally with her. She recently helped her parents navigate their health insurance options due to them losing coverage.

“Working in healthcare, I had access to various resources. It required time to sift through the system, which makes me think about people without that background. It’s confusing and tough. There are resources available, but they are overwhelmed at the moment. Everyone deserves support, which raises significant concerns,” Boldon mentioned.

“I hate to see hardworking Minnesotans, who have planned well for their golden years, feeling anxious about access to necessary care to maintain their dignity,” Murphy added.

Concerns are also echoed by state lawmakers. Senator Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) called the situation a “serious problem.”

“My thoughts are with those facing tough choices,” Nelson expressed. “Many live on fixed incomes and can’t just depend on their salary.”

She emphasized that the overarching cost of healthcare plays a crucial role in such decisions.

“Rising healthcare costs are the driving force behind these decisions. It’s not simply about reimbursement rates; it’s about whether those rates adequately cover care. How will these costs shift? That remains uncertain. It’s crucial that we keep looking for ways to ensure that Minnesotans, especially those in this area, access top-tier healthcare.”

Nelson pointed to decisions such as tax increases on specific segments of the healthcare industry, contributing to rising expenses for consumers.

“Any increase in consumer costs is a serious concern, especially in healthcare,” Nelson said. “That’s why I worry that the Minnesota Legislature is continuing to drive up healthcare costs through taxes on essential services such as prescriptions and facility fees.”

“That doesn’t resolve the issue for those who know their current plans might fall short for accessing Mayo Clinic,” Nelson continued. “Yes, you could still visit Mayo, but it would come at a higher price.”