For thousands of patients across Lubbock and West Texas, it's the kind of news they've been waiting to hear.

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Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) and Texas Tech Physicians (TTP) have officially reached a new agreement with UnitedHealthcare, ensuring patients will continue receiving care at in-network benefit levels without any interruption.

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No Gap in Coverage for Patients

The agreement means there will be no lapse in participation under UnitedHealthcare's commercial or Medicare Advantage plans. Even better, the new contract is retroactive to April 1st, 2026, eliminating concerns about a coverage gap that many patients feared during negotiations.

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For those with appointments already on the calendar, there's nothing to worry about.

If you're covered by UnitedHealthcare and receive care through Texas Tech Physicians, you do not need to cancel or reschedule appointments. Patients can continue seeing their providers as planned while receiving in-network benefits.

A Long Negotiation Comes to an End

According to TTUHSC, negotiations between Texas Tech Physicians and UnitedHealthcare began in early 2025 for clinics serving Amarillo, Lubbock, and the Permian Basin.

Throughout the process, both healthcare providers emphasized that their priority remained the health and well-being of their patients.

Martin Clay, Executive Director of Texas Tech Physicians, thanked both patients and staff for their patience during the lengthy negotiations.

We know periods of uncertainty can be difficult. We sincerely appreciate the trust our patients placed in us. Their support, along with the commitment of our team, helped us reach a positive resolution with UnitedHealthcare so we can continue focusing on what matters most — providing exceptional care to the communities we serve.

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Good News for West Texas Families

Healthcare contract disputes can create significant anxiety for patients, especially those receiving ongoing specialty care or treatment for chronic conditions.

For many families in Lubbock, Texas Tech Physicians serves as one of the region's largest healthcare networks, making this agreement particularly important.

The new contract provides reassurance that patients won't have to search for new physicians or worry about unexpected out-of-network costs as a result of the negotiations.

Questions? Here's Where to Get Help

Patients with questions about their specific insurance benefits should contact UnitedHealthcare Customer Service using the phone number on the back of their insurance card.

Anyone with questions regarding services provided during the negotiation period can find updated information on the Texas Tech Physicians website or contact the Texas Tech Physicians customer service line at (806) 743-2898.

After months of uncertainty, the agreement brings welcome stability to patients and providers alike, allowing everyone involved to focus on what matters most...delivering and receiving quality healthcare throughout West Texas.

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