WakeMed to Withdraw from UnitedHealthcare Network

Officials from UnitedHealthcare have announced that WakeMed will be leaving their network.

According to UnitedHealthcare representatives, starting November 15, 2025, WakeMed facilities and specialty care providers will no longer be part of the network for those enrolled in commercial and Medicare Advantage plans.

Laurie Mandel, CEO of UnitedHealthcare of the Carolinas Health Plan, stated, “WakeMed has chosen to leave our network after refusing our request for unreasonable rate increases.” She emphasized that while negotiations are ongoing, their priority is to ensure members have continuous access to necessary care, whether through existing providers or by facilitating a transition to new ones.

This change will impact various plans, including employer-sponsored individual plans, individual commercial plans, and Medicare Advantage options, such as group retirement plans and dual special needs plans.

However, primary care physicians employed by WakeMed will remain within the network, according to the officials.

On Tuesday, WakeMed expressed that they will not cover Medicare Advantage plans unless a new agreement is established.

WakeMed’s statement mentioned their intention to stay in the network but noted that they could not accept UnitedHealthcare’s proposed terms. They argued that those terms could undermine their mission of safeguarding community health.

“With rising supply, equipment, and labor costs, a UHC proposal that does not increase reimbursement to keep pace with inflation over the next four years is not only unacceptable; it is impossible,” the statement elaborated.

UnitedHealthcare clarified that individuals enrolled in Medicaid plans will still have access to WakeMed hospitals and providers.

For members currently receiving treatment from WakeMed for complex conditions, there may be options to continue their care at in-network costs for a limited time. Those who think they qualify should reach out to UnitedHealthcare for more information.