Effective June 30, 2026
If you have a WellCare Medicare Advantage plan and receive your healthcare through CenterWell, an important provider network change is coming to Nevada.
Beginning June 30, 2026, CenterWell providers will no longer participate in the WellCare Medicare Advantage network in Nevada.
For thousands of Medicare beneficiaries throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, Mesquite, and Clark County, this announcement has created understandable questions and concerns.
Will I lose my doctor?
Do I need to find a new primary care physician?
Can I keep my specialists?
Should I switch Medicare Advantage plans?
Do I qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?
The good news is that while this provider network change may affect where you receive your healthcare, it does not mean you are losing your Medicare coverage.
Understanding what is changing—and what is not—can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary interruptions in your care.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what this network change means, who may be affected, what options may be available, and how Medicare beneficiaries in Southern Nevada can prepare for the transition.
What Is Happening?
As of June 30, 2026, CenterWell medical providers will no longer be considered in-network for WellCare Medicare Advantage plans in Nevada.
For members who currently receive their healthcare through CenterWell clinics, this may mean they will need to transition to another participating primary care physician or evaluate other Medicare coverage options.
Although provider network changes are never convenient, they are not uncommon within Medicare Advantage.
Insurance companies and healthcare provider organizations periodically renegotiate contracts. Sometimes they reach new agreements, and sometimes they do not.
When negotiations are unsuccessful, provider organizations may leave an insurance company’s network.
Unfortunately, Medicare beneficiaries often learn about these changes after receiving a letter in the mail or hearing about it from their doctor’s office.
Who Is CenterWell?
CenterWell is a senior-focused healthcare organization that provides primary care services designed specifically for older adults.
Many Medicare beneficiaries appreciate CenterWell’s approach because appointments often include more time with physicians, coordinated care teams, preventive services, and chronic disease management.
CenterWell clinics commonly provide:
- Primary care
- Annual wellness visits
- Preventive screenings
- Diabetes management
- High blood pressure management
- Heart disease monitoring
- Care coordination
- Vaccinations
- Medication management
- Referrals to specialists
Many WellCare members throughout Las Vegas and Henderson have established long-term relationships with their CenterWell physicians.
For those members, this provider network change may require careful planning before their next appointment.
Why Are WellCare and CenterWell Ending Their Network Agreement?
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Why would this happen?”
The reality is that provider contracts are extremely complex.
Insurance companies and medical groups negotiate agreements involving:
- Physician reimbursement
- Administrative costs
- Quality measurements
- Value-based care initiatives
- Patient outcomes
- Operational responsibilities
- Contract terms
Sometimes negotiations result in a new agreement.
Other times, the organizations cannot agree on acceptable contract terms.
When that happens, providers may leave an insurance company’s network.
These situations occur throughout the healthcare industry and are not unique to WellCare or CenterWell.
While contract negotiations happen behind the scenes, the impact is ultimately felt by Medicare beneficiaries who simply want to continue seeing the doctors they know and trust.
What Does This Mean for WellCare Members?
If your primary care physician practices with CenterWell, you may need to make changes after June 30, 2026.
Depending on your specific situation, you may need to:
- Select a new primary care physician
- Transfer your medical records
- Verify specialist referrals
- Confirm future appointments
- Review your Medicare Advantage coverage
- Check that your preferred hospitals remain in-network
Every person’s healthcare needs are different.
Some members may experience only minor changes.
Others who receive ongoing treatment from multiple providers may need to spend more time coordinating their care.
The key is not to wait until your next appointment to begin reviewing your options.
What Is NOT Changing?
Perhaps the biggest misconception surrounding this announcement is that Medicare beneficiaries are losing their health insurance.
That is not what is happening.
Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings.
Your Medicare Coverage Is Not Ending
If you are enrolled in a WellCare Medicare Advantage plan, your Medicare coverage does not automatically end because of this provider network change.
Your WellCare Plan Is Not Being Discontinued
This announcement does not mean WellCare is leaving Nevada.
It also does not mean your Medicare Advantage plan has been terminated.
Instead, this change involves one provider organization—CenterWell—no longer participating in the WellCare network in Nevada.
Medicare Benefits Continue
Your Medicare Advantage plan continues according to its plan documents.
Your premiums, copayments, deductibles, and covered benefits generally do not automatically change simply because one provider organization leaves the network.
However, where you receive your healthcare may need to change if your physician is no longer participating.
Provider Network Changes vs. Medicare Plan Terminations
These two situations are often confused, but they are very different.
Provider Network Change
A provider network change occurs when a physician, medical group, hospital, or healthcare organization stops participating with an insurance company.
In this situation:
✔ Your Medicare Advantage plan continues.
✔ Your insurance company remains the same.
✔ Your benefits generally remain the same.
✔ You may need to choose a new doctor.
Medicare Plan Termination
A Medicare plan termination is much different.
This occurs when an insurance company completely discontinues a Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plan.
If this happens:
- Your plan no longer exists.
- Members must select new Medicare coverage.
- Medicare provides specific enrollment rights.
- New plan comparisons become necessary.
Fortunately, the current WellCare and CenterWell announcement is a provider network change, not a plan termination.
Understanding that distinction can help reduce unnecessary concern.
How Do I Know If I’m Affected?
You may be affected if:
- Your primary care physician practices with CenterWell.
- You regularly visit a CenterWell clinic.
- Your specialists receive referrals through CenterWell.
- You recently received a notice from WellCare.
- Your physician’s office informed you about the network change.
If you’re unsure, don’t guess.
Verify your physician’s participation before your next appointment.
A quick phone call today may save considerable frustration later.
What Should You Do Next?
Whenever a provider network changes, taking a few proactive steps can make the transition much smoother.
1. Verify Your Doctor
Start by confirming whether your physician is affected.
Even if two doctors practice in the same building, they may participate differently depending on contracts and affiliations.
2. Review Your Specialists
If your primary care physician changes, your referral relationships may also change.
Review specialists such as:
- Cardiologists
- Endocrinologists
- Pulmonologists
- Neurologists
- Orthopedic physicians
- Oncologists
- Urologists
- Rheumatologists
Knowing whether these physicians remain in-network can help avoid unexpected costs.
3. Review Your Hospitals
Many Medicare Advantage plans use hospital networks in addition to physician networks.
Verify that your preferred hospital continues to participate with your plan.
4. Review Your Prescription Drug Coverage
Although this provider network change does not automatically affect your prescription drug coverage, it’s still a good opportunity to review:
- Your medications
- Pharmacy preferences
- Formulary coverage
- Mail-order services
Many beneficiaries combine this review with their annual Medicare plan review.
A Unique Opportunity: Medicare’s 5-Star Special Enrollment Period
One silver lining for some Medicare beneficiaries is that this provider network change may prompt them to review another Medicare enrollment opportunity they may not know exists.
Medicare offers a 5-Star Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for eligible beneficiaries when a 5-star Medicare Advantage plan is available in their service area.
Unlike the Annual Enrollment Period, which takes place each fall, the 5-Star SEP may allow eligible Medicare beneficiaries to make a one-time plan change during the eligibility period.
For some WellCare members, this could provide an opportunity to move to another Medicare Advantage plan that better aligns with their healthcare needs and provider preferences.
Before making any changes, it’s important to compare:
- Primary care physicians
- Specialist networks
- Hospital participation
- Prescription drug coverage
- Monthly premiums
- Copayments
- Additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, transportation, over-the-counter allowances, and fitness programs
Every Medicare beneficiary’s situation is different.
A plan that works well for one person may not be the best choice for another.
Because of that, reviewing all available Medicare Advantage options before making a decision is always recommended.
If You’re Receiving Ongoing Medical Treatment
One of the biggest concerns many Medicare beneficiaries have is:
“What if I’m in the middle of treatment?”
This is an important question.
If you are actively receiving medical care, don’t assume you must immediately stop seeing your doctor.
Some Medicare Advantage plans have continuity-of-care policies that may allow members undergoing active treatment to continue seeing an affected provider for a limited period under certain circumstances.
This may be particularly important for individuals receiving:
- Cancer treatment
- Chemotherapy
- Dialysis
- Recent surgical follow-up
- Home health services
- Rehabilitation therapy
- Pregnancy-related care
- Ongoing specialist treatment for serious or chronic medical conditions
Eligibility for continuity-of-care protections depends on your specific circumstances and your health plan’s policies.
If you’re currently undergoing treatment, contact your Medicare Advantage plan as soon as possible to learn what options may be available before making changes to your care.
End of Part 1
This section establishes a strong foundation by explaining the network change, correcting common misconceptions, introducing the 5-Star SEP, and addressing continuity of care. In Part 2, we’ll expand with a comprehensive FAQ, local Southern Nevada provider information, references to Las Vegas-area communities, a practical action checklist, and additional content designed to strengthen the article’s local SEO and usefulness for Medicare beneficiaries.
Ok now write part 2. Thanks
Part 2: Frequently Asked Questions About the WellCare and CenterWell Network Change in Nevada
As an independent Medicare insurance agency serving Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, Mesquite, and communities throughout Clark County, we’ve already begun receiving questions from Medicare beneficiaries about this provider network change.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CenterWell closing its Nevada locations?
No.
This announcement does not mean that CenterWell clinics are closing.
CenterWell will continue serving Medicare patients in Nevada. The change is that CenterWell providers will no longer be participating in the WellCare Medicare Advantage provider network after June 30, 2026.
CenterWell may continue accepting patients who have other Medicare Advantage plans, Original Medicare, or other insurance coverage depending on each provider’s participation.
Is WellCare leaving Nevada?
No.
WellCare continues to offer Medicare Advantage plans in Nevada.
The announcement only affects the provider relationship between WellCare and CenterWell.
Will I lose my Medicare coverage?
No.
Your Medicare coverage does not end because of this provider network change.
Your Medicare Advantage plan remains active unless you choose different coverage or another qualifying event occurs.
Will I lose my doctor?
Possibly.
If your physician is employed by CenterWell or participates through CenterWell, you may need to select another in-network physician if you remain enrolled in your current WellCare plan.
The first step is verifying your specific physician’s participation.
What if I already have appointments scheduled?
Don’t automatically cancel your appointments.
Instead:
- Contact your doctor’s office.
- Contact WellCare.
- Ask whether your appointment is affected.
- Ask whether continuity-of-care provisions may apply.
Every situation is different.
Will I need a new Primary Care Physician?
Many members probably will.
Since Medicare Advantage plans often require members to select an in-network Primary Care Physician (PCP), you’ll want to determine whether your current physician remains participating after June 30.
If not, selecting a new PCP sooner rather than later can help ensure uninterrupted care.
Will my specialists change?
Not necessarily.
Some specialists may remain in-network while others may not.
You’ll want to verify every physician involved in your healthcare, especially if you regularly see:
- Cardiologists
- Pulmonologists
- Orthopedic surgeons
- Gastroenterologists
- Neurologists
- Endocrinologists
- Rheumatologists
- Urologists
Will my prescriptions change?
Probably not.
This provider network announcement primarily involves physician participation.
However, any time you’re reviewing Medicare coverage, it’s wise to verify:
- Prescription costs
- Pharmacy participation
- Formulary changes
- Mail-order services
Does this affect Medicare Part D?
Not directly.
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan (MAPD), your drug coverage generally continues according to your plan.
Still, reviewing your medications during any healthcare transition is a smart idea.
What hospitals are affected?
This announcement concerns CenterWell providers.
Hospital participation depends upon your specific Medicare Advantage plan.
Always verify your preferred hospital before scheduling elective procedures.
Can I continue seeing my CenterWell doctor?
That depends.
Some patients receiving active treatment may qualify for continuity-of-care protections.
Others may need to transition to another participating physician.
Contact your Medicare Advantage plan to discuss your individual circumstances.
Can my medical records be transferred?
Yes.
Medical records can typically be transferred to your new physician upon request.
Your new provider’s office can usually help coordinate the process.
What if I recently switched to WellCare?
Even if you recently enrolled, it’s worth reviewing your options with a licensed Medicare professional if your healthcare providers are changing.
Can I switch Medicare Advantage plans?
Possibly.
Depending on your circumstances and available enrollment rights, you may have opportunities to change plans.
Speak with a licensed Medicare agent to determine what enrollment periods or Special Enrollment Periods may apply to your situation.
What is the Medicare 5-Star Special Enrollment Period?
The 5-Star SEP allows eligible Medicare beneficiaries to make a one-time change to a qualifying 5-star Medicare Advantage plan when one is available in their service area.
This is one of Medicare’s lesser-known enrollment opportunities and can be especially valuable when your healthcare needs or provider preferences change.
Can I switch to a Medicare Supplement instead?
Possibly, but it depends on several factors.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) enrollment rules differ from Medicare Advantage enrollment rules, and eligibility may depend on your age, timing, and state-specific protections.
Nevada residents may also have rights under the Nevada Birthday Rule, which allows certain Medigap policyholders to change Medicare Supplement plans during a designated annual period without medical underwriting, provided eligibility requirements are met.
What if I live in Henderson?
Residents throughout Henderson—including Green Valley, Anthem, Inspirada, Seven Hills, MacDonald Highlands, and Sun City Anthem—should review whether their physicians are affected.
What if I live in Summerlin?
Many Summerlin residents receive care through multiple physician groups.
If you’re enrolled in WellCare and see CenterWell providers, verify your physician’s network participation before your next appointment.
What if I live in North Las Vegas?
The same recommendations apply.
Network participation depends on your physician—not simply your city.
What if I live in Boulder City or Mesquite?
Many Medicare beneficiaries travel to Las Vegas or Henderson for specialty care.
If you routinely receive treatment through CenterWell providers, it’s a good idea to verify your provider network before future appointments.
What if I do nothing?
Doing nothing could result in unexpected out-of-network issues, delayed appointments, or the need to find a new physician later.
Reviewing your options now gives you more time to make informed decisions.
Medicare Advantage Networks Can Be Different
One of the most important things Medicare beneficiaries should understand is that not all Medicare Advantage plans contract with the same doctors, hospitals, or medical groups.
A physician who participates with one Medicare Advantage company may not participate with another.
Likewise, a medical group may contract with several insurance companies but not others.
This is one reason why it’s important to review your provider network before enrolling in or changing a Medicare Advantage plan.
Major Medical Groups Serving Southern Nevada
Southern Nevada is home to several well-known physician organizations that participate in various Medicare Advantage plans.
Depending on your plan, you may encounter provider groups such as:
- CenterWell
- Intermountain Health
- Optum Care Nevada
- Southwest Medical
- P3 Medical Group
- CareMore
- Astrana Health
- Dignity Health Medical Group
- Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada
Provider participation varies by insurance company and individual physician.
Before enrolling in any Medicare Advantage plan, verify that your preferred doctors and specialists are in-network.
A Simple Checklist for WellCare Members
If you’re affected by this network change, consider the following steps:
✔ Confirm whether your doctor participates after June 30, 2026.
✔ Review any upcoming appointments.
✔ Verify specialist participation.
✔ Confirm hospital participation.
✔ Review your prescriptions.
✔ Learn whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
✔ Compare your Medicare Advantage options if keeping your current doctor is a priority.
✔ Transfer medical records if necessary.
✔ Don’t wait until your next appointment to start planning.
Why Annual Medicare Reviews Matter
Healthcare changes every year.
Doctor networks change.
Prescription formularies change.
Benefits change.
Copays change.
Hospital participation changes.
Even if this WellCare and CenterWell announcement doesn’t affect you today, it’s a good reminder of why reviewing your Medicare coverage annually is so important.
A plan that was an excellent fit last year may not be the best fit this year.
How Las Vegas Medicare Can Help
At Las Vegas Medicare, we believe Medicare decisions should begin with your healthcare—not with an insurance company’s marketing brochure.
As an independent Medicare insurance agency, we help beneficiaries compare plans based on factors that matter most, including:
- Your doctors
- Your specialists
- Your preferred hospitals
- Your prescription medications
- Your monthly budget
- Your travel habits
- Your healthcare priorities
Because we represent multiple Medicare insurance companies, our goal is to help you understand your options so you can choose the coverage that best fits your needs.
We proudly serve Medicare beneficiaries throughout:
- Las Vegas
- Henderson
- North Las Vegas
- Summerlin
- Green Valley
- Anthem
- Inspirada
- Centennial Hills
- Sun City Summerlin
- Sun City Anthem
- Boulder City
- Mesquite
- Clark County
Whether you’re turning 65, new to Medicare, relocating to Nevada, or simply reviewing your current coverage, we’re committed to providing clear, unbiased Medicare education.
Final Thoughts
Changes in healthcare provider networks can be unsettling, especially when you’ve built a relationship with a physician you trust.
The WellCare and CenterWell network change in Nevada is a reminder that Medicare Advantage plans are dynamic. Provider networks, benefits, and plan details can evolve over time.
Fortunately, a network change does not mean you’re out of options.
By understanding how this change affects your healthcare, verifying your providers, and reviewing your Medicare choices, you can make informed decisions that help keep your care on track.
If you have questions about your doctors, your Medicare Advantage plan, or whether another plan may better meet your needs, taking the time to review your options today can help prevent surprises tomorrow.
At LasVegasMedicare.com, our mission is simple: to provide trusted local Medicare education so Nevada seniors can make confident, informed healthcare decisions.
About Las Vegas Medicare
Las Vegas Medicare is an independent Medicare insurance agency serving Medicare beneficiaries throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, Mesquite, and Clark County, Nevada.
We help individuals compare Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans from multiple insurance companies. Our goal is to simplify Medicare by providing clear, unbiased education and personalized guidance based on each client’s doctors, prescriptions, healthcare needs, and budget.
Whether you’re turning 65, retiring, moving to Nevada, or reviewing your current Medicare coverage, we’re here to help you understand your options and make informed decisions with confidence.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for educational purposes only and is based on information available regarding the announced provider network change effective June 30, 2026. Provider participation, Medicare Advantage networks, enrollment rights, and plan benefits are subject to change. Always confirm your specific provider’s network participation and your eligibility for enrollment opportunities directly with your Medicare plan or a licensed Medicare professional before making healthcare decisions.