Firelands Health announces Medicare Advantage network change effective Jan. 1, 2027

Firelands Health announces Medicare Advantage network change effective Jan. 1, 2027

Starting Jan. 1, 2027, Firelands Regional Medical Center, Firelands Health The Bellevue Hospital and Firelands Physician Group will no longer participate in Anthem Medicare Advantage. This change affects all Anthem Medicare Advantage members who may seek care from these Firelands Health providers, including members who have not been patients during the past two years and did not receive a notification letter.

Firelands Health notified patients who used this plan during the past two years and is issuing this press release to ensure that all Anthem Medicare Advantage members, whether or not they received a letter, have time to understand the change and consider their options for 2027.

The decision follows extended discussions about contract terms needed to support patient care. Although the organizations have been unable to reach an agreement, Firelands Health appreciates the discussions with Anthem and remains focused on helping affected patients prepare for the change.

This change applies only to Anthem Medicare Advantage plans. It does not affect patients with Anthem commercial, Anthem Medicaid, or Anthem MyCare Ohio plans.

Firelands Health will continue to participate in most other Medicare Advantage plans. Patients should confirm that Firelands Health and their individual providers are included in a plan's network before making a coverage decision. Information about Medicare Advantage options is available by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visiting Medicare.gov.