09/02/2026
Health Net is exiting the California Small Group (SG) and Large Group (LG) medical market: and brokers need to act now.
This impacts all California SG and LG business, including groups enrolled through CaliforniaChoice*.
It does not impact Medi-Cal, Marketplace/Covered California, or Medicare lines of business.
Key dates:
• Final Health Net renewal and new business effective date: September 1, 2026
• All groups must transition off Health Net by February 28, 2027
As Health Net winds down its group business, brokers should review:
• Provider and network disruption
• Active prior authorizations and continuity-of-care needs
• Prescription coverage and formularies
• Account Management service delays
• Carrier participation and underwriting requirements
• Open enrollment timing and effective dates
• Potential shortened plan years
• Employee communications
• Potential rate increases for 1/1/2027
These risks can compound quickly. The safest, most strategic move is to begin transitioning groups now: while rates are stable and carrier options are wide open.
Insurance Buddy can help you navigate the transition and protect your groups. Visit insurancebuddy.ai.
*Confirm details and timelines with Health Net and applicable carriers.