Cigna Medicare Advantage Members in Delaware Face Enrollment Changes

Cigna Medicare Advantage members in Delaware are being offered a special enrollment period following a contract termination between Cigna and Bayhealth, effective January 1, 2025. Bayhealth has gone out of network with Cigna's Medicare Advantage plans in response to financial challenges, citing complications with claim denials and inadequate reimbursement rates compared to traditional Medicare. The Delaware Department of Insurance announced that members affected can switch plans during the designated enrollment period, which is set to assist them in transitioning to alternative coverage options.

Bayhealth's decision to terminate its contracts with Cigna and Humana was not made lightly, as the health system aims to maintain financial sustainability while continuing to provide quality care. In an effort to support their patients, Bayhealth has sent out notifications to affected members and is ready to assist them in navigating the changes. This scenario reflects the increasing trend of patients shifting from traditional Medicare to Medicare Advantage plans, impacting health systems across the country.

The health system remains committed to participating in other Medicare Advantage plans and encourages community members to seek assistance through their billing office or the Medicare Assistance Bureau for help during this transition period.