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Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) received questions about Medica acquiring certain UCare contracts and assets, and what that means for both providers and members. The following clarifies the impacts of the acquisition.
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Not Impacted: UCare Minnesota’s Prepaid Medical Assistance Program (PMAP), MinnesotaCare, Minnesota Senior Care Plus (MSC+) and Non-Integrated Special Needs BasicCare (SNBC) products are not impacted by this change. As of January 1, 2026, these products will continue under the UCare name and members will continue to have access to the same UCare network of providers. Medica commits to providing advance notice of any future changes. Members who are currently enrolled in these UCare products do not need to do anything at this time.
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Impacted: UCare’s Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO) and Integrated Special Needs BasicCare (I-SNBC) products will end December 31, 2025. For the remainder of 2025, there are no changes to benefits, coverage, contracts or network status for these members. For coverage in 2026, there is a path forward for these members to continue to be covered and receive care. UCare sent notification to all members that were impacted by this change. These dual (Medicare and Medical Assistance) enrollees will have a special election period available to select a new Medicare health plan. CMS will assign a new Prescription Drug Plan for enrollees that do not make a new Medicare selection effective January 1, 2026. Additionally, DHS will systematically move enrollees from UCare MSHO to UCare MSC+ and from UCare Integrated SNBC to UCare Non-Integrated-SNBC effective January 1, 2026. Medica also issued a notice to its provider network on Dec. 8, 2025, of these changes and this process for ensuring continuity of care for impacted members.
For the remainder of 2025 and beginning January 1, 2026, UCare members can continue to see their same providers. Medica is working quickly to welcome these new members and ensure their networks remain in place. Medica has committed to providing advanced notice to providers of any changes. UCare providers with questions about their contract with UCare should contact the Provider Assistance Center. UCare will keep its current Customer Service and Provider Assistance centers open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. You may call the centers at the following numbers:
- Members: 612-676-3200 or toll free at 800-203-7225
- Providers: 612-676-3300 or toll free at 888-531-1493
Medica has also provided a toll-free number for providers or members to call with questions related to MSHO or coverage options: 888-925-0747. Providers are also encouraged to visit Medica.com/Providers for the latest information and updates related to its transaction with UCare.
DHS is working to establish a new Annual Health Plan Selection (AHPS) timeline and mailing schedule. We will share that information as soon as it is available.
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