Two physician groups affiliated with Scripps Health in San Diego County have reportedly filed termination notices with Medicare Advantage plans, which could potentially affect thousands of patients. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Termination Notices: Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal, both affiliated with Scripps Health, have apparently terminated their senior Medicare Advantage HMO plans, effective from January 1, 2024.
Impacts on Patients: The termination of these Medicare Advantage plans may lead to potential changes for patients. They may have to change doctors or could face increased monthly premiums if they remain with their current plans.
Response from Mercy Physicians Medical Group: The director of Mercy Physicians Medical Group issued an undated memo to its member physicians, informing them of the termination of the Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal plans. This memo also indicates that various health plans have approached Mercy Physicians Medical Group with offers to assist in accepting a significant portion of the affected membership.
Physician Response: Physicians within the Mercy Physicians Medical Group were encouraged to express their willingness to accept additional patients by July 31. This suggests that they are considering the possibility of accommodating patients who may need to change doctors due to the termination of their Medicare Advantage plans with Scripps Clinic and Scripps Coastal.
Ongoing Negotiations: Scripps Health has stated that it remains in negotiations with the affected plans. The information indicates that no final decisions have been made, implying that there may still be room for resolution or changes in the situation.
Overall, the situation appears to be fluid, with negotiations ongoing between the involved parties. Patients and physicians in the affected groups may need to monitor the situation closely for updates and potential changes to their healthcare options.
