Prior Authorization

UnitedHealth Blocks Transparency on Coverage Denials

UnitedHealth successfully blocked a shareholder proposal, twice, that would have mandated an analysis of the healthcare access impacts of the company’s practices, such as prior authorization. The proposal, spearheaded by the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, was withdrawn to preserve the possibility of resubmission next year. UnitedHealth utilized new SEC guidance to file a second challenge, preventing the proposal from reaching a shareholder vote. This action drew criticism for potentially disenfranchising investors and silencing concerns about material risks related to healthcare access and affordability.

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UnitedHealthcare Denies Coma Patient’s Claim: Outrage Over Medically Necessary Care Denial

Dr. Zachary Levy’s viral social media post alleges UnitedHealthcare denied a claim for a comatose patient with a brain hemorrhage, heart failure, and ventilator dependence, citing a lack of proof of medical necessity. This incident follows the recent killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, sparking intense scrutiny of the health insurance industry and calls for reform. The company, while stating 90% of claims are approved, has not publicly addressed Levy’s specific case. The situation highlights ongoing frustrations with prior authorization requirements and the industry’s practices regarding claim denials.

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