St. Charles Health System Contemplates Dropping Medicare Advantage

St. Charles Health System in Oregon is evaluating its participation in Medicare Advantage plans due to concerns about patient care, access, and affordability. The hospital system is urging participants to consider shifting to traditional Medicare, citing administrative delays, denials, and frustrations with Medicare Advantage. St. Charles is not alone in expressing concerns, as the American Hospital Association has also raised issues about certain Medicare Advantage plan policies. The health system believes that encouraging patients to move away from Medicare Advantage plans is the right move for patient care and the sustainability of the health system. Patients impacted by this change will receive a letter from St. Charles and are encouraged to review their health insurance coverage during open enrollment.