“For too long, rural America has been sold out and left behind by corporations that treat our neighbors like numbers on a spreadsheet. Those days are over. If a health insurance company wants the privilege of doing business with the federal government, then they don’t get to abandon seniors in Upstate New York,” said  Riley.

More than two million New Yorkers rely on Medicare Advantage for affordable coverage, including lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Riley’s letter follows reports that UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and CVS Health will scale back these plans in rural communities in 2026 — a move that could leave rural seniors with fewer or no local options.

Riley is demanding clear answers from company executives, including:

• The reasons behind ending these plans, including financial or regulatory factors.

• The number of affected enrollees by county and plan type.

• A list of all ZIP codes in NY-19 losing coverage, and whether alternate plans exist.

• What steps are being taken to ensure a smooth transition for seniors.

• Whether profits or executive compensation influenced the decision.

• How the companies plan to prevent future disruptions and serve rural areas.

He gave the companies until Friday, November 14, 2025, at 5:00 PM to respond. The full letter is available HERE.