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Local providers, staff warn network changes could disrupt care for Vernon and Crawford County patients
Summary
Board members and local providers discussed notices that Medicare Advantage plans may change networks effective Jan. 1, potentially forcing many Vernon and Crawford County patients to travel farther for care; staff said human services offices have been flooded with calls and estimated at least a couple thousand people could be affected.
Board members spent a sustained portion of the meeting discussing a notice that some Medicare Advantage plans will change their provider networks, a shift staff said could limit local residents’ access to in-county providers.
A staff member summarized the problem: "For Crawford and Burnet County, those Vernon County Crawford County residents will no longer be able to predict the facility of controls plans. It would best affect through January 1," and later said human services was "flooded with phone calls and walk ins," estimating "at least a couple thousand" people could be affected. The staffer characterized the change as a large operational disruption for county services. (Speakers: Staff member.)
A local provider raised the practical effects on small practices: "My son is a provider. He's a massage therapist, and he's gonna lose probably 40% of his clients from that," the speaker said. A clinic representative also told the board there were "something like 8 or 900 patients that are on this Medicare Advantage Plan throughout Vernon Crawford County that just come to see us," underscoring the potential volume of displaced care. (Speakers: Staff member; Agency official.)
The board noted a community meeting was scheduled that afternoon at the ADRC to share information with patients and providers, and members agreed to monitor guidance from insurers and the state. No formal action was taken at the meeting; staff said they would report updates as they learn more.
Why it matters: Network changes in Medicare Advantage plans can redirect where patients receive tests and procedures and may increase travel or delay care for older adults and others reliant on local services. The board’s discussion flagged community concern and the need for rapid outreach and coordination with regional partners.
