Effective November 1, 2025, LCMC Health hospitals are out-of-network with UnitedHealthcare (UHC) commercial plans. However, Tulane Doctors remain in-network with UHC, and patients can continue to see their Tulane providers in both LCMC and Tulane Doctors clinics for in-network physician services. Please note that facility fees at LCMC clinics will be out-of-network. We are cautiously optimistic that UHC and LCMC will resolve contract negotiations in a timely manner.
- What happened between UnitedHealthcare and LCMC Health?
UnitedHealthcare and LCMC Health were unable to reach a new contract agreement. As a result, beginning November 1, 2025, all LCMC Health hospitals are considered out-of-network for patients with UHC commercial (employer-sponsored or individual) insurance plans.
Tulane physicians remain in-network with UHC, and patients can continue to see their Tulane providers in Tulane or LCMC clinics.
- Who is affected by this change?
This change impacts patients covered under UHC commercial plans, including employer-sponsored and individual plans.
Patients with UHC Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, or ACA Marketplace plans are not affected at this time.
This change does not affect Tulane clinic visit fees, as Tulane Doctors remain in-network. For questions, please contact your Tulane clinical care team.
- What does it mean that LCMC Health is now out-of-network?
When a facility is out-of-network, UHC typically pays a smaller portion of the costs, which can result in:
- Higher out-of-pocket expenses
- Balance bills for the difference between what UHC pays and LCMC charges
- Some services not being covered, depending on your plan
For surgical care, many Tulane physicians are credentialed at other in-network hospitals. Please contact your Tulane clinical care team to confirm your options.
- When did this change take effect?
The prior agreement between UHC and LCMC Health expired on November 1, 2025. As of that date, LCMC Health hospitals are out-of-network for UHC commercial members, while Tulane remains in-network.
- What if I already had appointments scheduled after November 1, 2025?
Appointments, procedures, or hospital stays scheduled after the contract ended are now considered out-of-network unless UnitedHealthcare granted a Continuity of Care (COC) exception. Both UHC and LCMC should have notified affected patients about their eligibility for temporary in-network coverage.
- What is “Continuity of Care,” and do I qualify?
Continuity of Care (COC) allows certain patients to continue receiving treatment at LCMC Health under in-network terms for a limited time. Eligible situations may include:
- Pregnancy or postpartum care
- Active cancer treatment
- Ongoing treatment for chronic or serious conditions
- Scheduled or recent surgeries
- Hospice or terminal illness care
If you believe you qualify, complete the attached Continuity of Care Form (Member forms | UnitedHealthcare) and follow the instructions for submission.
- What if I was admitted to the hospital before November 1, 2025?
If you were admitted to an LCMC hospital before November 1, your inpatient stay is covered as in-network through discharge.
Any new admissions or outpatient services after that date may be out-of-network.
Emergency services at any LCMC hospital are covered at in-network rates.
- What steps should I take now?
- If you are planning surgery or a hospital-based procedure, contact your Tulane provider or Tulane One Call to confirm if your physician is credentialed at an in-network facility.
- Call UnitedHealthcare at the number on the back of their insurance card or contact UnitedHealthcare customer service 1-866-801-4409. Patients who are undergoing current courses of treatment with LCMC Health providers may also inquire about their eligibility for continuity of care services to continue such treatment with LCMC Health providers on an in-network basis. They should also ask about the availability of out-of-network benefits through their plan.
- What are my financial responsibilities if I continue seeing Tulane providers at LCMC locations?
Physician fees for Tulane providers will remain in-network.
However, LCMC facility fees will be billed out-of-network, potentially resulting in higher deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, or balance bills.
Patients are strongly encouraged to contact UHC before scheduling non-emergency services at LCMC hospitals to understand potential costs.
- What if I have a medical emergency?
Emergency care is always covered at in-network benefit levels under federal and state law, regardless of hospital network status. If you experience an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
- Do I need to find a new in-network provider or hospital?
Tulane Doctors remain in-network with UHC and can continue to see you in both Tulane Doctors and LCMC clinics.
If you require surgery or hospital-based care, your Tulane physician can perform procedures at an in-network hospital where they hold credentials.
- What if I want to continue care at LCMC Health despite being out-of-network?
You may continue to receive care at LCMC Health if you choose; however, you may be responsible for higher, out-of-network costs.
Before proceeding, contact UHC and LCMC Health to request a cost estimate, confirm reimbursement, and understand whether balance billing applies.
- Will this affect my insurance premiums or benefits?
Your monthly premiums and plan benefits will remain unchanged.
However, if you receive hospital-based care at an LCMC facility, your out-of-pocket costs may increase because those facilities are now out-of-network.
Your care provided by Tulane Doctors remains in-network.
- Who can I contact for help or additional questions?
For assistance, please contact your Tulane clinical care team.
For patients impacted by the ongoing UnitedHealthcare negotiations, please visit HeartOfNOLA.com or call LCMC Health at 504-232-2077 for assistance and information.