Buffalo, NY, October 4, 2025
The renowned Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center will be out of network for Independent Health’s Medicare Advantage plans starting in 2026. This change raises concerns about access to specialized cancer care for thousands of patients who may now face increased costs or the need to seek care elsewhere. The decision, resulting from failed negotiations, emphasizes the need for patients to review their options during the upcoming open enrollment period to ensure uninterrupted treatment.
Buffalo Cancer Care Access Disrupted: Roswell Park Out of Network for Independent Health Medicare Plans in 2026
Buffalo, NY – Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center will no longer be considered in-network for Independent Health’s Medicare Advantage plans starting in 2026, a change that could impact thousands of patients relying on specialized cancer treatment in the region. This shift means beneficiaries enrolled in these plans may face higher out-of-pocket costs or need to seek care elsewhere for services at the renowned facility. The development has raised immediate concerns about continuity of care for individuals battling serious illnesses, as access to expert oncology services becomes more complicated.
The partnership between Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Independent Health, two key players in Western New York’s healthcare landscape, is undergoing significant alterations. Patients currently covered under Independent Health’s Medicare Advantage options have until the annual open enrollment period to review and potentially switch plans to avoid disruptions. Healthcare experts recommend that affected individuals act promptly to explore alternatives that maintain in-network access to Roswell Park, emphasizing the importance of uninterrupted treatment during critical health phases.
Under the new arrangement, treatments and consultations at Roswell Park would be classified as out-of-network, potentially leading to increased deductibles, copays, or even denied coverage for certain procedures. This could force some patients to travel to other facilities or pay substantially more to stay within the Roswell Park system, adding financial and logistical burdens at an already challenging time. Both organizations have stated their commitment to reducing the effects of this change, including providing guidance on coverage transitions and exploring ways to support ongoing patient needs.
Reasons Behind the Network Change
The decision stems from ongoing negotiations between the healthcare provider and insurer that failed to reach a new agreement for the 2026 plan year. Factors such as reimbursement rates, network adequacy requirements, and contractual terms likely played a role, though specific details of the breakdown remain undisclosed. Medicare Advantage plans, which are private alternatives to traditional Medicare, must meet federal standards for provider networks, but changes like this can occur as contracts expire. For Roswell Park, which specializes in cutting-edge cancer research and treatment, maintaining broad accessibility is vital, yet financial viability requires sustainable insurer partnerships.
Independent Health serves a large portion of seniors and individuals with disabilities in the Buffalo area through its Medicare Advantage offerings, which include extras like prescription drug coverage and wellness programs. Losing in-network status at Roswell Park affects a subset of these enrollees, particularly those diagnosed with cancer or at high risk. The center treats over 4,500 new patients annually and is a leader in clinical trials, making its role in the community especially critical.
Impact on Patients and Recommendations
For the estimated thousands of patients involved, the shift could mean reevaluating their healthcare choices during the Medicare Open Enrollment period from October 15 to December 7. Beneficiaries are advised to contact Independent Health or a licensed advisor to understand their options, including switching to another Medicare Advantage plan or reverting to Original Medicare with a Medigap policy that might offer more flexibility in provider selection. Delaying action could result in unexpected bills or gaps in coverage come January 2026.
Local healthcare advocates highlight that such network exclusions are not uncommon in the evolving Medicare Advantage market but underscore the need for transparency and patient support during transitions. Roswell Park has a history of adapting to serve its community, including through financial assistance programs and partnerships with other insurers. Independent Health, meanwhile, continues to emphasize its robust network of other high-quality providers in the region to fill any gaps.
Broader Context in Healthcare Landscape
This change occurs amid broader shifts in the healthcare sector, where insurers and providers nationwide grapple with rising costs and regulatory pressures. In New York State, Medicare Advantage enrollment has grown steadily, with over 1.2 million beneficiaries as of recent data, drawn to the plans’ additional benefits. However, frequent network adjustments can erode trust and complicate care coordination, especially for chronic conditions like cancer that demand specialized, ongoing attention.
Roswell Park, established in 1898 as the nation’s first cancer-focused research institution, remains a cornerstone of medical innovation in Buffalo and beyond. Its exclusion from one major insurer’s network does not diminish its overall accessibility, as it contracts with numerous other plans. Still, for those tethered to Independent Health, the adjustment signals a pivotal moment to reassess coverage in light of personalized health needs.
As the 2026 plan year approaches, staying informed and proactive will be essential for those affected. Resources from Medicare.gov offer tools to compare plans and estimate costs, helping patients navigate this landscape with confidence. The hope is that minimal disruptions allow focus to remain on recovery and well-being rather than administrative hurdles.
FAQ
What change is happening with Roswell Park and Independent Health for 2026?
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center will no longer be in-network for Independent Health’s Medicare Advantage plans starting in 2026.
How might this affect patients?
This shift could affect thousands of patients, prompting concerns over access to specialized care, with potential higher out-of-pocket costs or need to seek care elsewhere.
What are the organizations doing about it?
Both organizations are working to minimize disruptions, but experts urge beneficiaries to review their options carefully.
When should patients take action?
Patients have until the annual open enrollment period to review and potentially switch plans to avoid disruptions.
Key Features Chart
Below is a table highlighting the key features related to the Roswell Park and Independent Health network change for Medicare Advantage plans.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Affected Plans | Independent Health’s Medicare Advantage plans for 2026 |
| Change Effective | Starting January 2026 |
| Patient Impact | Thousands of patients may face higher costs or access issues to specialized cancer care |
| Action Period | Annual open enrollment (October 15 – December 7) |
| Organization Response | Working to minimize disruptions and urging review of options |
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