ECU Health and UnitedHealthcare: A New Era of Healthcare Access in Eastern NC

ECU Health has finalized a pivotal multi-year contract with UnitedHealthcare, reinstating in-network care access for over 100,000 individuals in eastern North Carolina who are covered by UnitedHealthcare. This strategic agreement aims to bolster the sustainability of rural health services in the region and is effective immediately, providing significant benefits to the community.

The contract encompasses patients enrolled in UnitedHealthcare’s Commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid plans, improving their access to ECU Health’s expansive network of providers, hospitals, and clinics. Throughout the negotiation process, ECU Health emphasized maintaining and restoring patients' access to affordable, local healthcare while ensuring vital services continue without disruption.

Enhanced Reimbursement and Improved Access

Previously, ECU Health faced stagnant reimbursement increases from UnitedHealthcare, despite escalating care delivery costs. The new agreement reflects financially sustainable terms, offering comprehensive in-network coverage for UnitedHealthcare members at all ECU Health facilities. Reimbursement terms now align with current care delivery costs, reducing administrative complexities and barriers to accessing care, while preserving existing patient-provider relationships.

Dr. Michael Waldrum, CEO of ECU Health, highlighted the agreement’s patient care focus, stating, “Meeting the mission of improving the health and well-being of eastern North Carolina means ensuring the sustainability of the services we provide, particularly given the ongoing challenges rural healthcare will continue to face.”

Patients previously affected by appointment cancellations or delays can now reschedule through MyChart or by contacting their healthcare provider directly. For additional information or assistance, patients may visit ECUHealth.org/UnitedHealthcare.