Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center announced it will no longer participate in Independent Health’s Individual Medicare Advantage plan, effective January 1, 2026. The decision stems from concerns that the plan imposes greater financial burdens on patients, including significantly higher deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket costs for continued care.
In a statement released on Friday, Roswell Park highlighted its commitment to patient welfare. The center emphasized that the changes in Independent Health’s Individual Medicare Advantage plans would shift more financial responsibility to patients and the community, which contradicts their mission to provide accessible quality care.
Roswell Park stated, “We believe that cost should never be a barrier to receiving quality care and service, and we could not participate in a plan that would put our patients and community at risk for financial harm.” This move aims to protect patients from the financial strain associated with the new plan structure.
The announcement also indicated that patients who wish to maintain in-network access to Roswell Park’s services will need to take action during the upcoming open enrollment period. The center encourages individuals to explore options that would allow them to remain within the network.
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of the leading institutions for cancer care in the United States, renowned for its research and treatment options. As the health care landscape evolves, decisions like this reflect the ongoing challenges faced by institutions in balancing financial sustainability with patient care priorities.
Patients enrolled in Independent Health’s Individual Medicare Advantage plans should prepare for potential changes in their coverage and seek alternative options if they wish to continue receiving care at Roswell Park. More information regarding enrollment and plan alternatives can be found on Roswell Park’s official website.
