Effective May 1, 2010, Sanford Medical Group is terminating from the UnitedHealthcare network due to its purchase by Pinehurst Medical Clinic, Inc. Because UHC does not currently have a network participation agreement with Pinehurst Medical Clinic, the former Sanford Medical Group physicians are no longer participating in the UHC network effective as of their acquisition. As a result, all services provided by these physicians or at former Sanford Medical facilities will be considered out-of-network. Additionally, out-of-network providers may balance-bill members for the total cost of services received resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs for your employees.

UHC is currently negotiating with Pinehurst Medical Clinic in hopes of agreeing on a contract that would cover all Pinehurst Medical Clinic physicians, including the former Sanford Medical Group physicians. In addition, UHC has offered an interim solution to Pinehurst Medical Clinic that would allow the former Sanford Medical Group physicians to remain in the UHC network while negotiations continue.

Pinehurst Medical Clinic has stated they remain open to contract negotiations, and that such negotiations are continuing. In the instance an agreement is reached, we will notify all affected groups.

In the meantime, UHC has other participating physicians in the Sanford area who are available to provide services to members on an in-network basis. Should you need additional information regarding other options in the Sanford area, or if you or your employees have any other questions or concerns, please contact our office at 919-403-1986.