Medicare Patients Face Coverage Loss at MD Anderson

Approximately 1,600 patients under Medicare Advantage plans will lose their insurance coverage at MD Anderson Cancer Center due to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas removing the facility from its in-network options starting November 1. This decision means that these patients will no longer have access to care at discounted rates afforded by in-network status. While Medicare patients are primarily affected, less than five Medicaid patients are expected to be impacted. Additionally, MD Anderson has coordinated to continue treatment for around 600 Medicare patients after the cutoff date and is exploring solutions for the others.

MD Anderson officials have confirmed that this removal does not affect the Medicare Advantage plans for retirees and their dependents associated with the University of Texas System and the Texas A&M University System. The decision reflects ongoing changes in Medicare Advantage plans, which are managed by private insurers and cater to individuals over 65 or those with specific disabilities. The dynamics of such insurance agreements continue to influence patient access to critical healthcare services, especially in specialized facilities like MD Anderson.