Patients covered by UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans will no longer find their insurance accepted at Brown University Health’s hospitals in Rhode Island starting July 1.
The change comes after the insurer and Rhode Island’s largest health system failed to reach an agreement to renew their contract after months of negotiation.
“In addition to a modest reimbursement rate increase to cover the costs of caring for their members, we asked United to eliminate their administrative policies that deviate from traditional Medicare, such as unnecessary prior approval and utilization management, that cause frustration for patients and result in extra cost to our health care system,” a statement provided by Brown Health spokesperson Jessica Wharton said.
 “Since both parties held firm in their positions, we mutually decided to end our Medicare Advantage hospital contract effective June 30, 2025,” the statement added.
UHC, however, disputes Brown Health’s version of events.
“We proposed extending our contract through the end of the year to provide Medicare Advantage members continued access to Brown University Health’s hospitals while we negotiate. Unfortunately, the health system refused and continues to seek price hikes that would make them significantly higher cost than any hospital in our Medicare Advantage network in Rhode Island,” said a statement provided by UHC spokesperson Cole Manbeck.
“We urge Brown University Health to share in our commitment toward reaching an agreement that is affordable so people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans have continued network access to its hospitals,” the statement continued.
UHC also stated it is still negotiating with Brown Health, but Wharton said negotiations had finished.
Starting July 1, patients covered by UHC Medicare Advantage plans, including Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) and Group Retiree plans, coming to Brown Health’s hospitals in Rhode Island – which include Rhode Island Hospital, the Miriam Hospital, Newport Hospital and Hasbro Children’s Hospital – will be considered out of network, which will likely result in greater charges for receiving health care services.
UHC stated that under 20,000 members will be impacted by the change.
One exception is people enrolled in UHC’s Group Retiree PPO plan, which will still consider Brown Health as an out-of-network provider, but their cost will be the same as if they were in network.
The change does not apply to Brown Health’s hospitals in Massachusetts – Morton Hospital in Taunton and Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River – which are under a separate agreement and where those patients will still be considered to be in network.
Brown Health physicians will also continue accepting UHC’s Medicare Advantage plans.
Both UHC and Brown Health stressed that patients who use the hospitals in Rhode Island for emergency services should still be covered by the insurer.

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Redirecting Penalty Revenues: Covered California Steps Up Services for Lower Income Enrollees  The Sacramento Observer
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Opinion: $66 billion in taxpayer money is getting sucked into this Medicare Advantage black hole  MarketWatch
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Getting stronger, feeling better and staying active isn’t just possible — it’s doable
Let’s face it — your bounce-back isn’t what it used to be. Whether it’s a round of golf, wrangling grandkids or doing yard work, recovery takes longer as you age. But the good news? It’s not too late. You can get fit again after 50. And you don’t need a fancy gym or a personal trainer to do it.
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We asked a registered dietitian and an exercise physiologist to share their top tips for getting stronger, boosting energy and just generally feeling better — starting now.
Yes — and you don’t have to go all-in on day one.
“You naturally lose muscle mass as you age,” says exercise physiologist Chris Travers, MS. “But that just means it’s time to tweak your routine, not throw in the towel.”
“Think of your 50s as a reset,” adds Kate Patton, MEd, RD, CSSD, LD. “It’s a great time to make healthy changes and build habits that stick.”
Water helps everything — from digestion to prostate health. But as you age, your thirst queue may not be as noticeable.
“Sometimes, your body doesn’t signal thirst as clearly,” Patton explains. “That means you may need to schedule your water intake.”
Try this:
And skip soda. Sugary drinks can mess with your metabolism. They can also raise your risk of heart disease and prostate problems.
Too much sodium raises blood pressure and heart disease risk. And if you’re not getting enough potassium, your risk is even higher.
Here’s what helps:
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“Aim for a minimum of five to seven servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables a day,” Patton recommends.
The MIND diet — rich in whole grains, berries, leafy greens, fish and nuts — may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in later years. Studies also show the importance of eating healthy fats, particularly extra virgin olive oil.
“What’s good for your heart is good for your brain and vice versa,” Patton notes. “In addition to a plant-rich diet, substitute foods rich in animal fat with healthier fats.”
Try swapping:
Men lose bone density, too. “Your bones need calcium, vitamin D and protein to stay strong,” says Patton. After 50, you need to stay on top of:
Eating too much trans-fat can lower testosterone and lead to erectile dysfunction (ED).
What can you do?
“Belly fat causes inflammation. It also affects how your body handles insulin, which can lead to low testosterone,” explains Travers. The good news? It’s reversible — this can be a big motivator to stick to your healthy eating and exercise plan!
No need for extreme workouts. Just move.
Travers recommends:
“You should always talk with your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine,“ he emphasizes. “And after that, start simple. Just get your heart pumping — it pays off.”
You lose lean muscle with age. “As a result, your metabolism slows down. This can cause weight gain — and not the good kind (muscle),” says Travers.
But you can build muscle back.
The key is consistency. Travers recommends just picking five or six exercises and doing them regularly to establish a routine. “Then, dumbbells can be your best friend,” he says. “Get a set of adjustable-weight dumbbells and slowly begin adding weight to the exercises that you’re already doing.”
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“It’s not a stretch to say that most men skip stretching,” Travers jokes.
But seriously, flexibility matters. Stress and aging tighten muscles, especially in your lower back and hamstrings. That can lead to injuries.
After workouts and long periods of sitting, try:
Getting fit after 50 isn’t about perfection. It’s about momentum.
“If you get moving, start lifting and stretching regularly, you’ll feel the change inside and out,” encourages Travers.
“Put in the work now, and you’ll be ready for whatever’s next — whether it’s the hiking trails or playing with your grandkids.”

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Monday, June 16, 2025
As the global tourism industry evolves, the focus on mental well-being has taken center stage in several European countries, reflecting a shift toward enhancing the overall experience for travelers. In 2025, European destinations are not just offering vacations but also providing tailored services to improve the mental health of tourists. These programs, initiatives, and events are aimed at creating more balanced, peaceful, and restorative travel experiences, reflecting the growing understanding of the vital connection between well-being and travel.

1. Italy: Wellness Retreats and Hotel-Based Mental Health Services

Italy has long been a leading destination for travelers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, and in 2025, it takes a step further by incorporating mental health support into its tourism offerings. The country is known for its wellness retreats, which focus not only on physical health but also on the mental well-being of participants. Programs in Italy typically feature mindfulness, meditation, and traditional healing practices, offering guests the opportunity to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with themselves in serene environments.

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Furthermore, many luxury hotels in Italy have partnered with mental health organizations to offer on-site therapy services. These collaborations include the availability of in-house psychologists and access to virtual therapy platforms, ensuring that travelers have access to mental health resources throughout their stay. Such offerings are set to make Italy a go-to destination for travelers seeking both luxury and mental well-being.

2. Greece: Arts and Mental Health Festival

Greece is hosting the 3rd Arts and Mental Health Festival from May 22 to 24, 2025 on the picturesque Aegina Island. This event is a unique blend of mental health awareness and the arts, using creative expression to promote mental well-being. During the festival, attendees can participate in various workshops and performances designed to raise awareness about mental health while fostering a sense of community and connection. It is an exceptional example of how cultural activities can play a role in improving mental health and providing therapeutic experiences for travelers.

3. Ireland: Youth Mental Health Initiatives

Ireland is taking significant steps in focusing on youth mental health, organizing events like the “No Shame – Traveller Youth Mental Health Event” in Athlone, Co Roscommon. This initiative, which targets younger travelers and the youth population in general, provides workshops and panel discussions aimed at reducing stigma surrounding mental health and promoting mental well-being. Ireland’s investment in such programs demonstrates a commitment to fostering a culture of openness and support, where young people can feel safe discussing their mental health challenges.

4. France: Nature-Based Wellness Activities

In 2025, France is offering a wide range of nature-based wellness activities, providing an ideal setting for travelers looking to rejuvenate their mental health. Floating yoga, surf retreats, and other water-based therapies are popular options for those seeking to restore their balance, with regions like Corsica being particularly sought after for their breathtaking coastlines and serene natural landscapes. These activities are designed to help travelers reduce stress, calm their minds, and reconnect with nature, offering a holistic approach to mental health that draws on the natural beauty of the country.

5. Poland: Rise in Wellness Travel

Poland has seen a notable increase in wellness travel in recent years, with wellness tourism growing significantly in 2025. According to Mastercard’s Experience Economy in Europe survey, Poland is becoming a key player in the mental health tourism sector. The country is increasingly catering to travelers who seek destinations focused on mental well-being, offering programs ranging from spa retreats to nature-based therapies. This growing trend reflects the wider European focus on integrating mental health into tourism, with Poland making wellness a key part of its appeal to visitors.

6. European Union: European Mental Health Week

The European Union is backing mental health awareness through initiatives like European Mental Health Week, scheduled for May 19-25, 2025. This event spans the entire continent, with various EU member states organizing activities to promote the importance of mental well-being and its connection to social rights. During this week, travelers and residents alike are encouraged to participate in activities and events that focus on reducing stigma, providing education, and fostering community support for mental health. The initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to ensuring mental health remains a top priority for both residents and visitors across Europe.

A Growing Focus on Mental Health in European Tourism

In 2025, European countries are leading the way in integrating mental health support into their tourism offerings. From wellness retreats in Italy to arts festivals in Greece and youth mental health initiatives in Ireland, travelers now have access to a wide array of programs designed to improve their mental well-being while traveling. These initiatives reflect a broader societal shift towards prioritizing mental health and well-being, showing how tourism can play a vital role in supporting individuals’ emotional and psychological needs.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, these efforts highlight how destinations are adapting to the changing demands of modern tourists, placing greater emphasis on holistic travel experiences that nurture both the body and mind. In the years to come, we can expect to see more destinations adopting similar approaches, making mental health support an integral part of the travel experience.

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Tags: Arts and Mental Health, EU Mental Health Week, European tourism, france, greece, Italy, mental health, mental health support, poland, Wellness Travel, Youth Mental Health

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