Thousands of San Diego Seniors Forced to Find New Doctors

Healthcare systems reassessing Medicare Advantage participation leave beneficiaries scrambling for continuity of care

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Thousands of seniors in San Diego County, including Patti and Myron Monroe of Poway, are facing the frustrating reality of being forced to locate new doctors as healthcare systems reassess their participation in Medicare Advantage plans. This trend, driven by low reimbursements and burdensome prior authorization processes, is leaving beneficiaries across the country struggling to maintain continuity of care.

Why it matters

The situation in San Diego highlights a concerning nationwide pattern, as more healthcare systems opt out of Medicare Advantage plans, citing financial viability concerns. This is leaving many seniors, who rely on these plans, in a difficult position of having to find new providers and navigate the complexities of their healthcare coverage.

The details

The Monroes recently received new medical cards listing doctors they had never seen, echoing what happened to 32,000 patients in 2023 when Scripps Health exited Medicare Advantage. Their SCAN health plan will no longer include UC San Diego (UCSD) primary care doctors as of March 1st. This pattern is being seen across the country, with Becker's Hospital Review publishing lists of health systems dropping Medicare Advantage plans for three consecutive years - 2024, 2025, and 2026 - with over 40 systems nationwide listed since 2024.

  • In 2023, Scripps Health exited Medicare Advantage, affecting 32,000 patients.
  • On March 1, 2026, the Monroes' SCAN health plan will no longer include UC San Diego (UCSD) primary care doctors.

The players

Patti and Myron Monroe

Seniors in Poway, San Diego County, who are facing the challenge of finding new doctors due to healthcare systems reassessing their participation in Medicare Advantage plans.

Scripps Health

A healthcare system that exited Medicare Advantage in 2023, affecting 32,000 patients.

UC San Diego (UCSD) Health

A healthcare system that will no longer be included in the Monroes' SCAN health plan as of March 1, 2026.

SCAN

A health plan that will no longer include UC San Diego (UCSD) primary care doctors in its network as of March 1, 2026.

Rachel Schmidt

A professor specializing in Medicare policy at Georgetown University, who notes the increasing tension between plans and providers, especially those with strong reputations.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.