Senate Dems Investigate UnitedHealth Scheme to Slash Nursing Home Care Expenses
Briefly

UnitedHealth Group reported significant profits of $34 billion in 2024, outperforming all other U.S. healthcare companies. Senators Wyden and Warren initiated an investigation into UHG's practices, raising alarms over allegations that the corporation incentivizes nursing homes to reduce care costs for insured patients. Concerns include systematic denial of necessary care for patients with chronic conditions, as well as the use of AI algorithms to deny services. The senators demanded transparency regarding hospital transfer practices related to UHG's affiliate, Optum, which employs a substantial number of physicians in the country.
Sens. Ron Wyden and Elizabeth Warren expressed concerns that UnitedHealth Group is incentivizing nursing homes to lower care standards for patients covered by their insurance.
Investigators highlight alarming reports suggesting that UnitedHealth maximizes profits by denying necessary care for patients, particularly the chronically ill, using AI algorithms.
The senators demanded answers regarding potential 'hospital transfer quotas' at nursing homes affiliated with UnitedHealth, questioning the ethics of their profit-driven strategies.
UHG maintains that its practices align with best care standards despite numerous allegations of prioritizing profit over patient health.
Read at Truthout
[
|
]