Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C, Elma) is calling on the leaders of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and Independent Health to renew negotiations to ensure patients currently enrolled in the insurance company’s individual Medicare Advantage plans will continue to have access to treatment at the cancer hospital. 

The two organizations have failed to reach a new agreement that would allow Roswell Park to continue as a participating provider under Independent Health’s individual Medicare Advantage plans starting in 2026. 

In a letter to Roswell Park President and CEO Dr. Candace Johnson and Independent Health President and CEO Dr. Michael Cropp, Senator Gallivan said resolving the issue is in the best interest of the community.

“Ensuring access to the very best cancer treatment available should be a priority, especially for seniors,” Senator Gallivan said. “Failure to reach an agreement that is fair to both parties will create greater financial and emotional stress for cancer patients and their families.”

As the Ranking Member of the Senate’s Standing Committee on Health, Senator Gallivan says he understands the challenges facing the health care industry. He also points out that New York State taxpayers have provided more $500 million in capital and operating funding to Roswell Park over the past five years.

“Roswell Park is among the very best when it comes to cancer treatment and research and we are fortunate to have it in Western New York,” Gallivan said. “Independent Health is one of the region’s largest insurance companies and has been named one of the best in the nation. I urge both organizations to do what’s right for patients.”

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