Healthcare costs in the U.S. continue to rise, leaving many individuals and families searching for ways to manage expenses without sacrificing quality care. Everything from insurance premiums to deductibles to out-of-pocket expenses are affected, and each can quickly add up, especially when expecting a new child or in the case of a medical emergency.
A new development that isn’t helping matters: The insurance coverage agreement between Johns Hopkins and UnitedHealthcare has expired, impacting nearly 60,000 patients in the Maryland area. Effective immediately, Johns Hopkins facilities in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. are considered “out-of-network” for patients insured through UnitedHealthcare. For those affected, this can mean significantly higher bills for routine or specialized care.
Birth injury and medical malpractice firm understands the impact that poor medical care can have on families welcoming a new child into this world. Instead of compensating for high costs with mediocre healthcare that could endanger yourself or your baby, the attorneys at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman recommend these strategies instead:
1. Understand your coverage
The first step is reviewing your insurance plan in detail. Check which providers are considered in-network and compare the cost of care inside versus outside the network. In cases like the Johns Hopkins–UnitedHealthcare situation, patients may need to find alternative providers or appeal to the insurer for continuity-of-care exceptions, particularly for ongoing treatments.
2. Negotiate medical bills
Hospitals and providers sometimes have flexibility in their billing. Patients can request an itemized bill, identify errors, and ask about discounts or financial assistance programs. Even if you are uninsured or facing out-of-network charges, facilities may offer payment plans that can spread out costs to alleviate the short-term financial impact.
3. Explore state and federal programs
Depending on your income and circumstances, you may qualify for Medicaid, subsidies through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace, or other state-based assistance programs. Open enrollment periods are an opportunity to shop for a plan that may provide better coverage for your needs.
4. Utilize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
If available through your employer, HSAs and FSAs allow you to pay for healthcare costs with pre-tax dollars, effectively reducing your overall expenses.
5. Consider alternative insurance options
If your provider network suddenly changes, it may be worth exploring other insurance carriers during your next enrollment period. Employers, brokers, or state health exchanges can help identify plans that better align with your preferred doctors and facilities.
6. Seek advocacy support
Patient advocacy organizations and nonprofit groups can help negotiate medical bills, appeal insurance denials, and provide guidance on accessing affordable care.
The Johns Hopkins–UnitedHealthcare situation serves as a reminder that insurance agreements can change with little notice, leaving patients caught in the middle. While this may raise healthcare costs for many, understanding your options and proactively seeking solutions can keep you and your family covered while saving your wallet from any additional burden. Whenever possible, do NOT sacrifice quality care in favor of cost. The consequences can be lifelong, impacting mothers and their children long after birth. Staying informed and knowing your rights will ultimately protect you from making a decision that could jeopardize your health or your baby’s health.
Seeking legal help for a birth injury?
has over 100 years of combined experience holding negligent medical professionals accountable. They have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for families affected by medical malpractice. If your child has suffered a birth injury due to delayed or negligent care, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal action can help ensure your child receives the medical treatment and support they need for life, while also giving your family the justice they deserve. Visit for a free consultation for your case.
This article is sponsored by Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman.
Disclaimer: This article is educational and not meant to provide any official legal or medical advice.