UTMB Health in Galveston leaves the Wellcare Medicare Advantage network on Jan. 1, 2027, for members who get care there, and open enrollment for choosing a plan that includes it ends Dec. 7. UTMB says Wellcare “has made the decision to remove UTMB Health providers and hospitals” from its Medicare Advantage network effective that date. The notice does not affect Wellcare Medicaid members.
The decision came from the insurer’s side, and UTMB’s posted notice is aimed at patients who still have time to act. It urges people to choose a 2027 Medicare Advantage plan that includes UTMB Health in network. The University of Texas Medical Branch’s health system also says it has an agreement with Wellcare that holds until the end of 2026.
A bridge through Dec. 31
UTMB and Wellcare agreed to keep UTMB in network through Dec. 31, 2026, according to the notice. Because of that agreement, UTMB says a continuity of care request is no longer needed for the rest of the year. Patients can keep appointments, treatment and procedures scheduled before Jan. 1 without filing paperwork…