White River Health announced that beginning April 1, 2026, its hospitals and facility-based services are officially out of network with UnitedHealthcare for patients with commercial and Medicare Advantage plans.
The change comes after extended contract negotiations between the two organizations failed to reach an agreement.
“This is not the outcome we wanted,” said White River Health President and CEO Steven Webb. “We are disappointed we were unable to come to terms with UnitedHealthcare on a contract that ensures patients can continue accessing high-quality care in their community.”
Who Is Affected
Patients covered by UnitedHealthcare commercial and Medicare Advantage plans may now face:
Higher out-of-pocket costs for hospital and facility services
Changes in how care is billed and reimbursed
However, not all patients are impacted. The following remain unaffected:
Arkansas state retirees
Teachers
Patients with VA coverage
White River Health also confirmed that:
👉 Physicians and professional services — including routine office visits — remain in network at this time
What Patients Should Do
White River Health is encouraging patients to take immediate action to understand their coverage options:
Contact UnitedHealthcare to review out-of-network benefits
Speak with employers or HR departments about alternative coverage options
Review personal insurance plans carefully
Continuity of Care Option
Some patients may qualify for Continuity of Care, which could allow temporary in-network access for ongoing treatments.
Eligible patients include those:
Under active treatment
Managing chronic conditions
Pregnant
📅 Deadline: Requests must be submitted by April 30, 2026 and require approval from UnitedHealthcare.
Commitment to the Community
White River Health emphasized its continued commitment to patient care across Batesville Arkansas and surrounding communities.
“We remain committed to our patients and to delivering compassionate, high-quality care,” Webb said. “We are here to help our community understand their options and continue accessing the services they need.”
More Information
Patients can learn more by visiting:
WhiteRiverHealth.org/UHC or calling 870-262-3777
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