Shields Health and UnitedHealthcare Contract Negotiations

What You Need to Know

  • Your Shields MRI or PET/CT appointment scheduled through October 31, 2025, will take place as planned.
  • Shields Health remains in-network with UHC through October 31, 2025.
  • Negotiations with UHC are ongoing, and Shields Health is committed to reaching a fair agreement that protects access to high-quality, affordable care.
  • If UHC does not agree to fair terms, Shields Health may be considered out-of-network beginning November 1, 2025 for MRI and PET/CT services.

We know this situation can cause concern. Below, you’ll find answers to common questions, details on impacted services, and information on where you can continue to receive care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change my appointment?

  • Appointments scheduled on or before October 31, 2025: No changes are needed. Shields Health remains in-network with UHC until this date.
  • Appointments scheduled after October 31, 2025: Negotiations are still in progress. Do not cancel your appointment. If UHC chooses not to agree to fair terms, we will contact you with ample time and assist you with your options.

Why are Shields Health and UHC negotiating?

Every few years, Shields Health and insurers like UHC renegotiate contracts to ensure terms fairly reflect the cost and value of care. Shields is committed to delivering innovative, high-quality, and affordable care. A fair agreement with UHC ensures we can continue providing this level of service to our patients and communities.

What happens if no agreement is reached by November 1, 2025?

If no agreement is reached, starting November 1, 2025, UHC members may no longer receive in-network coverage for Shields Health MRI or PET/CT services.

Patients who are pregnant, in active treatment, or otherwise eligible under continuity of care provisions may qualify to continue with Shields at in-network coverage for a limited time.

Most importantly, patients scheduled with us will be supported — and if needed, we’ll help them reschedule at partner locations where UHC coverage still applies

Will all Shields locations and services be affected?

  • Surgery: Not impacted. All Shields ambulatory surgery centers are in-network with UHC.
  • MRI: Some Shields Health MRI services will remain in-network under hospital or partner contracts.
  • PET/CT: All Shields Health PET/CT services will be impacted and be out-of-network.

UHC coverage for Shields services will still apply at the following locations:

MRI Services at:

  • Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA
  • Newton Wellesley Orthopedics, Wellesley, MA
  • Emerson Hospital, Concord, MA
  • Emerson Health Outpatient Center, Westford, MA
  • Cape Cod Hospital, Hyannis, MA
  • Falmouth Hospital, Falmouth, MA
  • Fontaine Medical Center, Harwich, MA
  • Stoneman Outpatient Center, Sandwich, MA
  • Wilkens Outpatient Medical Complex, Hyannis, MA
  • Atlantic Orthopaedics Sports Medicine, Portsmouth, NH
  • Central Maine Medical Center, Lewiston, ME
  • Harrington Hospital, Southbridge, MA
  • Harrington Hospital at Charlton, Charlton, MA

What Can Patients Do?

  • Stay Informed: Check this page regularly for updates
  • Ask Questions: For details on your UHC coverage, call the number on the back of your UHC health plan ID card.
  • Voice Your Concerns: Patients can contact UHC directly to express the importance of maintaining access to Shields Health.
  • Explore Options: During open enrollment, you may wish to review alternative insurance plans that include Shields Health in-network.

Our Commitment

At Shields Health, our patients come first. We are working in good faith to reach a fair agreement with UHC, and we are hopeful for a resolution that maintains uninterrupted access to our services.

Thank you for trusting Shields Health with your care.