Anthem has announced two major network updates that Colorado members should pay attention to: UCHealth, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and CU Medicine are joining Pathway Essentials on December 1, 2026, while HCA HealthONE could leave the affected Anthem networks that same day. Depending on where you get your care, these changes could make an Anthem plan more appealing or leave you needing to reconsider your options.
HCA HealthONE could leave December 1
Anthem and HCA HealthONE haven’t reached a new contract agreement. If they don’t come to terms, HealthONE could leave your plan’s network on December 1, 2026. For people who rely on HealthONE hospitals or providers, that’s a significant concern. If they become out of network, you could pay more for care or need to move your care to another provider.
The departure isn’t final. Negotiations could still result in an agreement. But if you have an upcoming procedure, ongoing treatment, or a doctor connected with HealthONE, this deserves attention now. The date also falls before the end of your current plan year. Choosing a different plan for January won’t address a potential network problem in December. If you have care scheduled during that month, ask Anthem whether your specific provider would be affected and whether arrangements are available to continue your treatment.
UCHealth joins Pathway Essentials
There’s good news for people who want access to UCHealth. Previously, UCHealth wasn’t included in Anthem’s Pathway Essentials network. Access through Anthem required the broader, much more expensive Pathway network. Beginning December 1, Pathway Essentials members will have in-network access to UCHealth, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and CU Medicine for primary, specialty, and pediatric care.
That’s a big upgrade. If you previously ruled out Pathway Essentials because it didn’t include your UCHealth providers, it’s worth another look as you compare coverage for 2027. We’ll still need to check your specific doctors and locations, along with prescriptions and other plan benefits, before recommending a plan.
Reviewing your Anthem coverage for 2027
These changes make it especially important to look beyond the renewal premium. A plan needs to fit where you actually receive care. We can help you review your Anthem coverage or compare it with other options. Send us the doctors and hospitals you want to keep, especially any HealthONE or UCHealth providers, so we can take those into account.
