UnitedHealthcare Scare: Here's What You Need to Know

NEW ORLEANS, Oct 31. - Neighbors in Orleans, Jefferson, Plaquemines, and St. Charles Parishes who have UnitedHealthcare will no longer have coverage through the Health Insurance Markerplace for 2026.

That means many individuals and families who currently rely on UnitedHealthcare for their health coverage will need to choose a new plan soon.

While this change may create uncertainty, one thing hasn't changed: BCHS is still here for you!

No Insurance? No problem.

At BCHS, we believe everyone deserves access to quality and compassionate healthcare, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. If you're one of the residents impacted by UnitedHealthcare's marketplace exit, don't panic. You won't lose care here. Our doors remain open to all patients: insured, underinsured, or uninsured.

Learn more about Sliding Fee Program here Financial Information.

Affordable care through our Sliding Fee Program

We understand that insurance changes can create financial stress. That's why BCHS offers a Sliding Fee Program: a payment assistance option that reduces medical costs based on your household income and size.

This means that even if your coverage changes, or disappears altogether, you can still receive the care you need without breaking your budget.

Open Enrollment Tips from the Louisiana Department of Insurance:

• Review your options. Plans and premiums can change each year. This year has included significant federal changes, resulting in premium increases and alterations to plan offerings. It is important to review the options offered in your area and ensure your plan selection includes your doctors and suits your health needs.
  
  
• Meet deadlines. If you enroll in a plan by December 15, your coverage will begin Jan. 1, 2026. If you enroll after December 15 but by the final deadline of January 15, your coverage will begin Feb. 1, 2026. If you do not elect coverage by January 15, you will be unable to get an individual marketplace plan unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a qualifying life change.
  
  
• Contact an agent. A licensed health insurance agent can help you understand your options, answer questions you may have and determine if you qualify for a premium tax credit.

For more information and resources, visit the Louisiana Department of Insurance website at ldi.la.gov

You can count on BCHS

Insurance plans may shift, but out mission doesn't. We'll continue to be here for you, whether you have coverage or not!