YOUNGSTOWN Mercy Health is alerting more than 10,000 Humana Managed Medicaid and Medicare Advantage members that they could lose their coverage come December 1 if negotiations are not reached.

According to a press release, Mercy Health has been in contract negotiations with Humana for four months.

If an agreement is not reached by December 1, Mercy Health hospitals, physicians, urgent care centers, ambulatory surgery centers and other care centers will be considered out-of-network for Humana Managed Medicaid and Medicare Advantage members..

Mercy Health says access to emergency department services will always be available to patients regardless of network status.

Mercy Health Ohio President Dr. John Luellen is quoted in a press release saying patients who rely on Managed Medicaid or Medicare Advantage often face unique challenges and are often among the most vulnerable in the community.

"When reimbursement rates are not sustainable and claims are frequently denied, it creates uncertainty and barriers to care for these patients and their families. We remain committed to resolving these negotiations thoughtfully and working to protect our patients from any gaps in their access to care," Dr. Luellen said.

For now, Humana patients may continue to access Mercy Health providers and facilities as they always have. 

This news comes not long after a 21 News Watchdog Report that Mercy Health Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Youngstown was found to be not in compliance with Medicare requirements after a review on September 3.

If changes are not made, the hospital could lose its Medicare certification on December 17, 2025.

At that time, Mercy Health provided a statement to 21 News saying they are taking this matter seriously and are working to develop a plan of action to address all concerns.

21 News reached out to a spokesperson for Mercy Health for updates on this matter, and we were told there were no updates at this time.