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UnitedHealth Group: Difference between revisions
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In 1988, United HealthCare started its first [[pharmacy benefit manager|pharmacy benefit management]], through its [[Diversified Pharmaceutical Services]] subsidiary. It managed pharmacy benefits delivered both through retail pharmacies and mail. The subsidiary was sold to [[SmithKline Beecham]] in 1994 for $2.3 billion.<ref name=phil1994>{{cite web| url=http://articles.philly.com/1994-05-04/news/25827533_1_drug-firms-pharmaceutical-marketplace-pharmaceutical-benefits|title=Smithkline Is Buying A Benefits Company It's Acquiring Diversified Pharmaceutical Services. The Cost: $2.3 Billion.|work=philly-archives|url-status=dead|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20160329220715/http://articles.philly.com/1994-05-04/news/25827533_1_drug-firms-pharmaceutical-marketplace-pharmaceutical-benefits|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | In 1988, United HealthCare started its first [[pharmacy benefit manager|pharmacy benefit management]], through its [[Diversified Pharmaceutical Services]] subsidiary. It managed pharmacy benefits delivered both through retail pharmacies and mail. The subsidiary was sold to [[SmithKline Beecham]] in 1994 for $2.3 billion.<ref name=phil1994>{{cite web| url=http://articles.philly.com/1994-05-04/news/25827533_1_drug-firms-pharmaceutical-marketplace-pharmaceutical-benefits|title=Smithkline Is Buying A Benefits Company It's Acquiring Diversified Pharmaceutical Services. The Cost: $2.3 Billion.|work=philly-archives|url-status=dead|archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20160329220715/http://articles.philly.com/1994-05-04/news/25827533_1_drug-firms-pharmaceutical-marketplace-pharmaceutical-benefits|archive-date=March 29, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
In 1994, United HealthCare acquired Ramsey-HMO, a Florida insurer.<ref>{{Cite news| issn=0362-4331 | last=Freudenheim | first=Milt | title=COMPANY NEWS; Healthcare Acquisition Is Planned | work= | In 1994, United HealthCare acquired Ramsey-HMO, a Florida insurer.<ref>{{Cite news| issn=0362-4331 | last=Freudenheim | first=Milt | title=COMPANY NEWS; Healthcare Acquisition Is Planned | work=The New York Times | date=February 16, 1994 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/02/16/business/company-news-healthcare-acquisition-is-planned.html | url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619090033/http://www.nytimes.com/1994/02/16/business/company-news-healthcare-acquisition-is-planned.html | archive-date=June 19, 2015 | df = mdy-all}}</ref> In 1995, the company acquired The MetraHealth Companies Inc. for $1.65 billion. MetraHealth was a privately held company formed by combining the group healthcare operations of [[The Travelers Companies]] and [[MetLife]]. In 1996, United HealthCare acquired HealthWise of America, which operated HMOs in Arkansas, Maryland, Kentucky and Tennessee.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.managedcaremag.com/archives/1996/3/united-healthcare-expands-presence-southeast-region |title=United HealthCare Expands Presence in Southeast Region |date=March 1, 1996 |website=managedcaremag.com | url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161011120123/http://www.managedcaremag.com/archives/1996/3/united-healthcare-expands-presence-southeast-region|archive-date=October 11, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
In 1998, the company was reorganized as the [[Holding company|holding]] of independent companies UnitedHealthcare, Ovations, Uniprise, Specialized Care Services and Ingenix, and rebranded as "UnitedHealth Group". Also in 1998, United Health Group acquired HealthPartners of Arizona, operator of Arizona's largest [[Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System|AHCCCS]] provider.<ref>{{cite web | title = HealthPartners sold; layoffs possible – Tucson Citizen Morgue, Part 2 (1993–2009) | url = http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue2/1998/06/12/196795-healthpartners-sold-layoffs-possible/ | access-date = June 1, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001838/http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue2/1998/06/12/196795-healthpartners-sold-layoffs-possible/ | archive-date = March 4, 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref> | In 1998, the company was reorganized as the [[Holding company|holding]] of independent companies UnitedHealthcare, Ovations, Uniprise, Specialized Care Services and Ingenix, and rebranded as "UnitedHealth Group". Also in 1998, United Health Group acquired HealthPartners of Arizona, operator of Arizona's largest [[Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System|AHCCCS]] provider.<ref>{{cite web | title = HealthPartners sold; layoffs possible – Tucson Citizen Morgue, Part 2 (1993–2009) | url = http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue2/1998/06/12/196795-healthpartners-sold-layoffs-possible/ | access-date = June 1, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001838/http://tucsoncitizen.com/morgue2/1998/06/12/196795-healthpartners-sold-layoffs-possible/ | archive-date = March 4, 2016 | url-status = dead }}</ref> | ||
=== 2000s === | === 2000s === | ||
In 2001, EverCare, a UnitedHealth Group subsidiary, merged with LifeMark Health Plans<ref>{{cite web |url=http://edgar.secdatabase.com/2528/95013702001930/filing-main.htm |title=UNITEDHEALTH GROUP INC, Form 10-K, Annual Report, Filing Date Apr 1, 2002 |publisher=secdatabase.com |access-date=May 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516175111/http://edgar.secdatabase.com/2528/95013702001930/filing-main.htm |archive-date=May 16, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2002, UnitedHealth Group acquired GeoAccess and Medicaid insurance company AmeriChoice.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/19/business/company-news-unitedhealth-agrees-to-acquire-americhoice.html | title=UNITEDHEALTH AGREES TO ACQUIRE AMERICHOICE | date=June 19, 2002 | agency= | In 2001, EverCare, a UnitedHealth Group subsidiary, merged with LifeMark Health Plans<ref>{{cite web |url=http://edgar.secdatabase.com/2528/95013702001930/filing-main.htm |title=UNITEDHEALTH GROUP INC, Form 10-K, Annual Report, Filing Date Apr 1, 2002 |publisher=secdatabase.com |access-date=May 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516175111/http://edgar.secdatabase.com/2528/95013702001930/filing-main.htm |archive-date=May 16, 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2002, UnitedHealth Group acquired GeoAccess and Medicaid insurance company AmeriChoice.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/19/business/company-news-unitedhealth-agrees-to-acquire-americhoice.html | title=UNITEDHEALTH AGREES TO ACQUIRE AMERICHOICE | date=June 19, 2002 | agency=Associated Press| newspaper=The New York Times |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170307020735/http://www.nytimes.com/2002/06/19/business/company-news-unitedhealth-agrees-to-acquire-americhoice.html|archive-date=March 7, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In 2003, UnitedHealth Group acquired Mid Atlantic Medical Services, an insurer serving Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Delaware and West Virginia.<ref>{{Cite news| issn=0099-9660 | title=UnitedHealth Agrees to Buy Rival Mid Atlantic Medical| work=The Wall Street Journal | date=October 27, 2003| url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106725362340602300| url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703120409/http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106725362340602300| archive-date=July 3, 2015| df=mdy-all}}</ref> Also in 2003, UnitedHealth Group acquired Golden Rule Financial, a provider of health savings accounts.<ref>{{cite web| last=Thomas| first=Trevor| title=Rating Agencies: UnitedHealth To Acquire Golden Rule| work=LifeHealthPro| date=September 23, 2003| url=http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2003/09/23/rating-agencies-unitedhealth-to-acquire-golden-rul| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703045541/http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2003/09/23/rating-agencies-unitedhealth-to-acquire-golden-rul| archive-date=July 3, 2015| df=mdy-all| access-date=July 2, 2015}}</ref> On July 21, 2003, Exante Bank started operating in Salt Lake City, Utah, as a Utah state-chartered industrial loan corporation. It changed its name to OptumHealth Bank in 2008<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080303005991/en/Exante-Financial-Services-OptumHealth-Financial-Services | title=Exante Financial Services Becomes OptumHealth Financial Services | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=March 3, 2008 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161803/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080303005991/en/Exante-Financial-Services-OptumHealth-Financial-Services | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> and to [[Optum Bank]] in 2012. | ||
In April 2004, UnitedHealth Group acquired Touchpoint Health Plan, a Wisconsin health plan.<ref>{{Cite news| title=UnitedHealthcare to acquire Touchpoint Health Plan – Milwaukee | work=[[American City Business Journals]] | url=http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2004/03/29/daily49.html| url-status = live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703110439/http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2004/03/29/daily49.html| archive-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref> In July 2004, the company acquired [[Oxford Health Plans]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oxhp.com/main/united.html|title=Oxford Health Plans Announces Agreement to Merge With UnitedHealthcare|website=www.oxhp.com|access-date=2019-09-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061015225306/https://www.oxhp.com/main/united.html|archive-date=October 15, 2006|url-status=live}}</ref> | In April 2004, UnitedHealth Group acquired Touchpoint Health Plan, a Wisconsin health plan.<ref>{{Cite news| title=UnitedHealthcare to acquire Touchpoint Health Plan – Milwaukee | work=[[American City Business Journals]] | url=http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2004/03/29/daily49.html| url-status = live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150703110439/http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2004/03/29/daily49.html| archive-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref> In July 2004, the company acquired [[Oxford Health Plans]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oxhp.com/main/united.html|title=Oxford Health Plans Announces Agreement to Merge With UnitedHealthcare|website=www.oxhp.com|access-date=2019-09-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061015225306/https://www.oxhp.com/main/united.html|archive-date=October 15, 2006|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
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In December 2005, the company acquired [[PacifiCare Health Systems]].<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051221005166/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Merger-PacifiCare-Health-Systems | title=UnitedHealth Group Completes Merger with PacifiCare Health Systems, Inc. | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=December 21, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161803/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051221005166/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Merger-PacifiCare-Health-Systems | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> It agreed to divest parts of PacifiCare's commercial health insurance business in [[Tucson, Arizona]] and [[Boulder, Colorado]] to satisfy [[antitrust]] regulator concerns, and also agreed to end its network access agreement with [[Blue Shield of California]]. The Tucson business was sold to Cigna.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://amednews.com/article/20060710/business/307109992/6/ | title=United spins off members to Cigna | first=JONATHAN G. | last=BETHELY | work=American Medical News | date=July 10, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161745/https://amednews.com/article/20060710/business/307109992/6/ | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> The company acquired Prescription Solutions, another pharmacy benefits manager, as part of its acquisition of [[PacifiCare Health Systems]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.annualreports.com/HostedData/AnnualReportArchive/u/NYSE_UNH_2005.pdf | title=UnitedHealth Group 2005 Form 10-K | access-date=November 18, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421064712/https://www.annualreports.com/HostedData/AnnualReportArchive/u/NYSE_UNH_2005.pdf | archive-date=April 21, 2017 | url-status=live }}</ref> This business was later rebranded OptumRx. | In December 2005, the company acquired [[PacifiCare Health Systems]].<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051221005166/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Merger-PacifiCare-Health-Systems | title=UnitedHealth Group Completes Merger with PacifiCare Health Systems, Inc. | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=December 21, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161803/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051221005166/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Merger-PacifiCare-Health-Systems | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> It agreed to divest parts of PacifiCare's commercial health insurance business in [[Tucson, Arizona]] and [[Boulder, Colorado]] to satisfy [[antitrust]] regulator concerns, and also agreed to end its network access agreement with [[Blue Shield of California]]. The Tucson business was sold to Cigna.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://amednews.com/article/20060710/business/307109992/6/ | title=United spins off members to Cigna | first=JONATHAN G. | last=BETHELY | work=American Medical News | date=July 10, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161745/https://amednews.com/article/20060710/business/307109992/6/ | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> The company acquired Prescription Solutions, another pharmacy benefits manager, as part of its acquisition of [[PacifiCare Health Systems]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.annualreports.com/HostedData/AnnualReportArchive/u/NYSE_UNH_2005.pdf | title=UnitedHealth Group 2005 Form 10-K | access-date=November 18, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421064712/https://www.annualreports.com/HostedData/AnnualReportArchive/u/NYSE_UNH_2005.pdf | archive-date=April 21, 2017 | url-status=live }}</ref> This business was later rebranded OptumRx. | ||
In February 2006, the company acquired [[John Deere]] Health Care.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://qctimes.com/business/deere-completes-sale-of-health-care-operations/article_6f6eac62-8d17-51fa-accd-f914719d9b38.html | title=Deere completes sale of health care operations | first=Kay | last=Luna | work=[[Quad-City Times]] | date=February 25, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161741/https://qctimes.com/business/deere-completes-sale-of-health-care-operations/article_6f6eac62-8d17-51fa-accd-f914719d9b38.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051206005552/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Purchase-John-Deere-Health-Care | title=UnitedHealth Group to Purchase John Deere Health Care; Builds on John Deere Health Care 20-Year Service History to Important Local Customers; Advances Efforts to Make Health Care Services More Affordable, More Available and Easier to Use | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=December 6, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161752/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051206005552/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Purchase-John-Deere-Health-Care | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://qctimes.com/news/local/unitedhealthcare-to-buy-john-deere-health-care-jobs-to-remain/article_ba86dcb4-0bc1-5e27-96b7-ada8f3d3f535.html | title=UnitedHealthcare to buy John Deere Health Care; jobs to remain in Q-C | first=Jennifer | last=DeWitt | work=[[Quad-City Times]] | date=December 6, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161747/https://qctimes.com/news/local/unitedhealthcare-to-buy-john-deere-health-care-jobs-to-remain/article_ba86dcb4-0bc1-5e27-96b7-ada8f3d3f535.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> The same year, [[William W. McGuire]] stepped down as chairman and director due to his involvement in the employee stock options scandal.<ref>{{cite news |title=Chief executive at U.S. health insurer forced out |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/16/business/worldbusiness/16iht-web.1016united.3168637.html| work= | In February 2006, the company acquired [[John Deere]] Health Care.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://qctimes.com/business/deere-completes-sale-of-health-care-operations/article_6f6eac62-8d17-51fa-accd-f914719d9b38.html | title=Deere completes sale of health care operations | first=Kay | last=Luna | work=[[Quad-City Times]] | date=February 25, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161741/https://qctimes.com/business/deere-completes-sale-of-health-care-operations/article_6f6eac62-8d17-51fa-accd-f914719d9b38.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051206005552/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Purchase-John-Deere-Health-Care | title=UnitedHealth Group to Purchase John Deere Health Care; Builds on John Deere Health Care 20-Year Service History to Important Local Customers; Advances Efforts to Make Health Care Services More Affordable, More Available and Easier to Use | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=December 6, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161752/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20051206005552/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Purchase-John-Deere-Health-Care | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://qctimes.com/news/local/unitedhealthcare-to-buy-john-deere-health-care-jobs-to-remain/article_ba86dcb4-0bc1-5e27-96b7-ada8f3d3f535.html | title=UnitedHealthcare to buy John Deere Health Care; jobs to remain in Q-C | first=Jennifer | last=DeWitt | work=[[Quad-City Times]] | date=December 6, 2005 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161747/https://qctimes.com/news/local/unitedhealthcare-to-buy-john-deere-health-care-jobs-to-remain/article_ba86dcb4-0bc1-5e27-96b7-ada8f3d3f535.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> The same year, [[William W. McGuire]] stepped down as chairman and director due to his involvement in the employee stock options scandal.<ref>{{cite news |title=Chief executive at U.S. health insurer forced out |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/16/business/worldbusiness/16iht-web.1016united.3168637.html| work=The New York Times | date=October 16, 2006}}</ref> He was replaced by CEO Stephen Hemsley who had served as president and COO and a member of the board of directors. McGuire's exit compensation from UnitedHealth was anticipated to be $1.1 billion,<ref>{{cite news | url=http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/biz/4318193.html|title=Steffy: How William McGuire earned that fat paycheck | work=[[Houston Chronicle]] |url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080329042755/http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/biz/4318193.html | archive-date=March 29, 2008 | df=mdy-all}}</ref> but he only received $618 million after returning $420 million in stock options.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Phelps |first1=David |title=McGuire pays again, ends SEC's inquiry |url=https://www.startribune.com/mcguire-pays-big-to-end-inquiry/12234411/ |access-date=21 May 2023 |publisher=StarTribune |date=6 December 2007}}</ref> | ||
In February 2008, the company acquired Sierra Health Services for $2.6 billion.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080225006528/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Acquisition-Sierra-Health-Services | title=UnitedHealth Group Completes Acquisition of Sierra Health Services | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=February 25, 2008 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161752/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080225006528/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Acquisition-Sierra-Health-Services | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> As part of the transaction, to obtain regulatory approval, 25,000 customers were sold to [[Humana]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.crowell.com/NewsEvents/PressReleasesAnnouncements/Crowell-Morings-Antitrust-Group-Represents-Sierra-Health-Services-in-UnitedHealth-Groups-26-Billion-Acquisition|title=Crowell & Moring's Antitrust Group Represents Sierra Health Services in UnitedHealth Group's $2.6 Billion Acquisition|date=February 25, 2008 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315041733/https://www.crowell.com/NewsEvents/PressReleasesAnnouncements/Crowell-Morings-Antitrust-Group-Represents-Sierra-Health-Services-in-UnitedHealth-Groups-26-Billion-Acquisition|archive-date=March 15, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In July 2009, UnitedHealth Group agreed to acquire [[Health Net]]'s Northeast licensed subsidiaries for up to $570 million in payments spread out over two years.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/healthnet/update-2-unitedhealth-to-buy-some-health-net-operations-idUSN2014793120090720 | title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth to buy some Health Net operations | first=Jessica | last=Hall | work= | In February 2008, the company acquired Sierra Health Services for $2.6 billion.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080225006528/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Acquisition-Sierra-Health-Services | title=UnitedHealth Group Completes Acquisition of Sierra Health Services | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=February 25, 2008 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161752/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20080225006528/en/UnitedHealth-Group-Completes-Acquisition-Sierra-Health-Services | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> As part of the transaction, to obtain regulatory approval, 25,000 customers were sold to [[Humana]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.crowell.com/NewsEvents/PressReleasesAnnouncements/Crowell-Morings-Antitrust-Group-Represents-Sierra-Health-Services-in-UnitedHealth-Groups-26-Billion-Acquisition|title=Crowell & Moring's Antitrust Group Represents Sierra Health Services in UnitedHealth Group's $2.6 Billion Acquisition|date=February 25, 2008 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160315041733/https://www.crowell.com/NewsEvents/PressReleasesAnnouncements/Crowell-Morings-Antitrust-Group-Represents-Sierra-Health-Services-in-UnitedHealth-Groups-26-Billion-Acquisition|archive-date=March 15, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In July 2009, UnitedHealth Group agreed to acquire [[Health Net]]'s Northeast licensed subsidiaries for up to $570 million in payments spread out over two years.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/healthnet/update-2-unitedhealth-to-buy-some-health-net-operations-idUSN2014793120090720 | title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth to buy some Health Net operations | first=Jessica | last=Hall | work=Reuters | date=July 20, 2009 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021140/https://www.reuters.com/article/healthnet/update-2-unitedhealth-to-buy-some-health-net-operations-idUSN2014793120090720 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
=== 2010s === | === 2010s === | ||
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In 2011, Logistics Health, Inc. of [[La Crosse, Wisconsin]], was acquired by OptumHealth.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/don-weber-speaks-out-on-lhi-sale/article_6e5b74ca-68a7-11e0-9d4a-001cc4c03286.html | title=Don Weber speaks out on LHI sale | date=April 18, 2011 | work=[[La Crosse Tribune]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705080414/http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/don-weber-speaks-out-on-lhi-sale/article_6e5b74ca-68a7-11e0-9d4a-001cc4c03286.html| archive-date=July 5, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In September 2014, the office buildings where LHI is based were sold to UnitedHealth Group for $45 million.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.news8000.com/news/3-riverside-center-buildings-for-sale/28078164| title=Don Weber sells 3 Riverside Center buildings in La Crosse| work=[[WKBT-DT]]| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508232134/http://www.news8000.com/news/3-riverside-center-buildings-for-sale/28078164| archive-date=May 8, 2016| df=mdy-all| access-date=September 7, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/riverside-center-buildings-sold-for-million/article_3298502f-3f71-5296-aadd-7724470d7178.html | title=Riverside Center buildings sold for $45 million |author=Tribune staff | date=September 23, 2014|work=[[La Crosse Tribune]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903115129/http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/riverside-center-buildings-sold-for-million/article_3298502f-3f71-5296-aadd-7724470d7178.html |archive-date=September 3, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | In 2011, Logistics Health, Inc. of [[La Crosse, Wisconsin]], was acquired by OptumHealth.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/don-weber-speaks-out-on-lhi-sale/article_6e5b74ca-68a7-11e0-9d4a-001cc4c03286.html | title=Don Weber speaks out on LHI sale | date=April 18, 2011 | work=[[La Crosse Tribune]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705080414/http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/don-weber-speaks-out-on-lhi-sale/article_6e5b74ca-68a7-11e0-9d4a-001cc4c03286.html| archive-date=July 5, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> In September 2014, the office buildings where LHI is based were sold to UnitedHealth Group for $45 million.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.news8000.com/news/3-riverside-center-buildings-for-sale/28078164| title=Don Weber sells 3 Riverside Center buildings in La Crosse| work=[[WKBT-DT]]| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508232134/http://www.news8000.com/news/3-riverside-center-buildings-for-sale/28078164| archive-date=May 8, 2016| df=mdy-all| access-date=September 7, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/riverside-center-buildings-sold-for-million/article_3298502f-3f71-5296-aadd-7724470d7178.html | title=Riverside Center buildings sold for $45 million |author=Tribune staff | date=September 23, 2014|work=[[La Crosse Tribune]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170903115129/http://lacrossetribune.com/news/local/riverside-center-buildings-sold-for-million/article_3298502f-3f71-5296-aadd-7724470d7178.html |archive-date=September 3, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
In February 2012, the company acquired XLHealth, a sponsor of [[Medicare Advantage]] health plans with a primary focus on medicare recipients with special needs such as those with chronic illness and those eligible for Medicaid ("dual eligibles").<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20120209/NEWS/302099981/unitedhealthcare-completes-xlhealth-deal | title=UnitedHealthcare completes XLHealth deal | first=Paul | last=Barr | work=[[Modern Healthcare]] | date=February 9, 2012 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021150/https://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20120209/NEWS/302099981/unitedhealthcare-completes-xlhealth-deal | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> In October 2012, UnitedHealth Group and Amil Participações, one of the biggest Brazilian health insurance companies, completed the first phase of their merger.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2012/1029amil.html | title=UnitedHealth Group, Amil Complete First Phase of Combination | publisher=UnitedHealth Group | date=October 29, 2012 | quote=UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) and Amil Participações S.A. (BM&FBOVESPA: AMIL3) announced today that the companies have completed the first phase of their combination. The combination is expected to create a new growth platform for UnitedHealth Group's benefits and services companies and will enable Amil to bring advanced technology, a tradition of consumer-focused innovation, modern service and clinical programs to further advance health care in Brazil. | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021144/https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2012/1029amil.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-unitedhealth-takeover-amil-idUSBRE8970E120121008 | title=UnitedHealth to buy most of Brazil's Amil for $4.9 billion | first=Caroline | last=Humer | work= | In February 2012, the company acquired XLHealth, a sponsor of [[Medicare Advantage]] health plans with a primary focus on medicare recipients with special needs such as those with chronic illness and those eligible for Medicaid ("dual eligibles").<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20120209/NEWS/302099981/unitedhealthcare-completes-xlhealth-deal | title=UnitedHealthcare completes XLHealth deal | first=Paul | last=Barr | work=[[Modern Healthcare]] | date=February 9, 2012 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021150/https://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20120209/NEWS/302099981/unitedhealthcare-completes-xlhealth-deal | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> In October 2012, UnitedHealth Group and Amil Participações, one of the biggest Brazilian health insurance companies, completed the first phase of their merger.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2012/1029amil.html | title=UnitedHealth Group, Amil Complete First Phase of Combination | publisher=UnitedHealth Group | date=October 29, 2012 | quote=UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) and Amil Participações S.A. (BM&FBOVESPA: AMIL3) announced today that the companies have completed the first phase of their combination. The combination is expected to create a new growth platform for UnitedHealth Group's benefits and services companies and will enable Amil to bring advanced technology, a tradition of consumer-focused innovation, modern service and clinical programs to further advance health care in Brazil. | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021144/https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2012/1029amil.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-unitedhealth-takeover-amil-idUSBRE8970E120121008 | title=UnitedHealth to buy most of Brazil's Amil for $4.9 billion | first=Caroline | last=Humer | work=Reuters | date=October 8, 2012 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021142/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-unitedhealth-takeover-amil-idUSBRE8970E120121008 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390444897304578044390351511894 | title=UnitedHealth to Buy 90% of Brazil's Amil for $4.3 Billion | first1=Anna Wilde | last1=Mathews | first2=Jon | last2=Kamp | work=The Wall Street Journal | date=October 8, 2012 | url-access=subscription | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021141/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10000872396390444897304578044390351511894 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
In February 2014, [[Optum]] secured a [[majority stake]] in the Washington, D.C.-based startup Audax Health.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news | url=https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/19/audax-healths-24-year-old-ceo-sells-majority-stake-in-the-company-to-unitedhealth/ | title=Audax Health's 24-year-old CEO sells majority stake to UnitedHealth | last=Farr | first=Christina | work=[[VentureBeat]] | date=February 19, 2014 | access-date=January 21, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232821/https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/19/audax-healths-24-year-old-ceo-sells-majority-stake-in-the-company-to-unitedhealth/ | archive-date=January 21, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> Audax's CEO, Grant Verstandig, continued running the firm alongside [[Chief operating officer|COO]] David Ko.<ref name=":4" /> In October 2014, Optum Health acquired the health services unit of [[Alere]] for $600 million cash.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2014/1028optumalere.html|date=2014-10-28|title=Optum, Alere Health to Combine to Help Health Plans, Employers and States Improve Population Health, Reduce Health Care Costs|access-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214114408/https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2014/1028optumalere.html|archive-date=December 14, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> | In February 2014, [[Optum]] secured a [[majority stake]] in the Washington, D.C.-based startup Audax Health.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news | url=https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/19/audax-healths-24-year-old-ceo-sells-majority-stake-in-the-company-to-unitedhealth/ | title=Audax Health's 24-year-old CEO sells majority stake to UnitedHealth | last=Farr | first=Christina | work=[[VentureBeat]] | date=February 19, 2014 | access-date=January 21, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232821/https://venturebeat.com/2014/02/19/audax-healths-24-year-old-ceo-sells-majority-stake-in-the-company-to-unitedhealth/ | archive-date=January 21, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> Audax's CEO, Grant Verstandig, continued running the firm alongside [[Chief operating officer|COO]] David Ko.<ref name=":4" /> In October 2014, Optum Health acquired the health services unit of [[Alere]] for $600 million cash.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2014/1028optumalere.html|date=2014-10-28|title=Optum, Alere Health to Combine to Help Health Plans, Employers and States Improve Population Health, Reduce Health Care Costs|access-date=December 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181214114408/https://www.unitedhealthgroup.com/newsroom/2014/1028optumalere.html|archive-date=December 14, 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
In March 2015, it was announced that [[Catamaran Corporation|CatamaranRx]] would be acquired by OptumRx.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-to-buy-catamaran-for-12-8-billion-in-cash-1427709601 | date=March 30, 2015| title=UnitedHealth to Buy Catamaran for $12.8 Billion in Cash | work= | In March 2015, it was announced that [[Catamaran Corporation|CatamaranRx]] would be acquired by OptumRx.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-to-buy-catamaran-for-12-8-billion-in-cash-1427709601 | date=March 30, 2015| title=UnitedHealth to Buy Catamaran for $12.8 Billion in Cash | work=The Wall Street Journal |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170430104640/https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-to-buy-catamaran-for-12-8-billion-in-cash-1427709601| archive-date=April 30, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
In April 2016, the company announced it was pulling out of all but a "handful" of state healthcare exchanges provided under [[Affordable Care Act]] and will continue to sell only in three states in 2017.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/04/19/unitedhealth-group-to-exit-obamacare-exchanges-in-all-but-a-handful-of-states/ |title=UnitedHealth Group to exit Obamacare exchanges in all but a 'handful' of states | newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919170750/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/04/19/unitedhealth-group-to-exit-obamacare-exchanges-in-all-but-a-handful-of-states/ |archive-date=September 19, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.economist.com/news/united-states/21706527-obamacares-future-not-yet-secure-encumbered-exchange|title=Encumbered exchange| newspaper=[[The Economist]] |issn=0013-0613 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916132509/http://www.economist.com/news/united-states/21706527-obamacares-future-not-yet-secure-encumbered-exchange |archive-date=September 16, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | In April 2016, the company announced it was pulling out of all but a "handful" of state healthcare exchanges provided under [[Affordable Care Act]] and will continue to sell only in three states in 2017.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/04/19/unitedhealth-group-to-exit-obamacare-exchanges-in-all-but-a-handful-of-states/ |title=UnitedHealth Group to exit Obamacare exchanges in all but a 'handful' of states | newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919170750/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2016/04/19/unitedhealth-group-to-exit-obamacare-exchanges-in-all-but-a-handful-of-states/ |archive-date=September 19, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.economist.com/news/united-states/21706527-obamacares-future-not-yet-secure-encumbered-exchange|title=Encumbered exchange| newspaper=[[The Economist]] |issn=0013-0613 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916132509/http://www.economist.com/news/united-states/21706527-obamacares-future-not-yet-secure-encumbered-exchange |archive-date=September 16, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
| Line 73: | Line 73: | ||
In 2017, UnitedHealth's Optum unit acquired Rally Health,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/marketing-strategy-unitedhealth-groups-rally-health-cmo-brenda-yang-2019-8|title=The CMO of a health-tech firm inside America's largest health insurer told us why pop-ups and celebs like Katie Couric are key to her 3-part marketing strategy|last=Court|first=Emma|website=Business Insider|access-date=2020-03-04}}</ref> a company started by Audax Health's executives.<ref name=wellness>{{Cite news |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/morning_call/2015/02/san-franciscosrally-health-startup-launches-online.html?page=all |title=San Francisco's Rally Health startup launches online wellness platform |last=Rauber |first=Chris |date=February 3, 2015 |work=[[American City Business Journals]] |access-date=January 21, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150224213021/http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/morning_call/2015/02/san-franciscosrally-health-startup-launches-online.html?page=all |archive-date=February 24, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Prior to acquisition, in 2015, UnitedHealth supported Rally Health as a majority investor,<ref>{{Cite news| url=https://www.recode.net/2015/02/02/former-zynga-executive-david-ko-thinks-he-can-turn-health-care-into-a-game-and-win/| title=Former Zynga Executive David Ko Thinks He Can Turn Health Care Into a Game — And Win| last=Fried| first=Ina| date=February 2, 2015| work=[[Re/code]]| author-link=Ina Fried| access-date=January 21, 2019| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414013643/http://recode.net/2015/02/02/former-zynga-executive-david-ko-thinks-he-can-turn-health-care-into-a-game-and-win/| archive-date=April 14, 2016| url-status=dead}}</ref> and through enrolling 5 million UnitedHealth policy holders in Rally Health's flagship product, RallySM.<ref name=wellness/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Startup-Rally-Health-wants-to-play-games-with-6057636.php|title=Startup Rally Health wants to play games with your health|last=Kaul|first=Greta|date=February 3, 2015|work=[[San Francisco Chronicle]]|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232629/https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Startup-Rally-Health-wants-to-play-games-with-6057636.php|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref group="nt">Also referred to as Rally.({{Cite news|url=https://hitconsultant.net/2015/02/03/rally-health-launches-digital-health-platform/|title=Rally Health Launches Digital Wellness Platform With Over 5M People|last=Staff|date=February 3, 2015|work=HIT Consultant|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232808/https://hitconsultant.net/2015/02/03/rally-health-launches-digital-health-platform/|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}})</ref> The close relations between UnitedHealth, Audax Health and Rally Health follows a close personal relationship between Grant Vrestandig (Audax and Rally) and UnitedHealth's [[President (corporate title)|President]] and [[CFO]] at the time, David Wichmann.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Moukheiber|first=Zina|date=February 3, 2015|title=UnitedHealth Group Launches Wellness Program Tied To Premiums|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/zinamoukheiber/2015/02/03/unitedhealth-group-launches-wellness-program-tied-to-premiums/#47572c396194|journal=Forbes|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232657/https://www.forbes.com/sites/zinamoukheiber/2015/02/03/unitedhealth-group-launches-wellness-program-tied-to-premiums/#47572c396194|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> | In 2017, UnitedHealth's Optum unit acquired Rally Health,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.com/marketing-strategy-unitedhealth-groups-rally-health-cmo-brenda-yang-2019-8|title=The CMO of a health-tech firm inside America's largest health insurer told us why pop-ups and celebs like Katie Couric are key to her 3-part marketing strategy|last=Court|first=Emma|website=Business Insider|access-date=2020-03-04}}</ref> a company started by Audax Health's executives.<ref name=wellness>{{Cite news |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/morning_call/2015/02/san-franciscosrally-health-startup-launches-online.html?page=all |title=San Francisco's Rally Health startup launches online wellness platform |last=Rauber |first=Chris |date=February 3, 2015 |work=[[American City Business Journals]] |access-date=January 21, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150224213021/http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/morning_call/2015/02/san-franciscosrally-health-startup-launches-online.html?page=all |archive-date=February 24, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref> Prior to acquisition, in 2015, UnitedHealth supported Rally Health as a majority investor,<ref>{{Cite news| url=https://www.recode.net/2015/02/02/former-zynga-executive-david-ko-thinks-he-can-turn-health-care-into-a-game-and-win/| title=Former Zynga Executive David Ko Thinks He Can Turn Health Care Into a Game — And Win| last=Fried| first=Ina| date=February 2, 2015| work=[[Re/code]]| author-link=Ina Fried| access-date=January 21, 2019| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160414013643/http://recode.net/2015/02/02/former-zynga-executive-david-ko-thinks-he-can-turn-health-care-into-a-game-and-win/| archive-date=April 14, 2016| url-status=dead}}</ref> and through enrolling 5 million UnitedHealth policy holders in Rally Health's flagship product, RallySM.<ref name=wellness/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Startup-Rally-Health-wants-to-play-games-with-6057636.php|title=Startup Rally Health wants to play games with your health|last=Kaul|first=Greta|date=February 3, 2015|work=[[San Francisco Chronicle]]|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232629/https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Startup-Rally-Health-wants-to-play-games-with-6057636.php|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref group="nt">Also referred to as Rally.({{Cite news|url=https://hitconsultant.net/2015/02/03/rally-health-launches-digital-health-platform/|title=Rally Health Launches Digital Wellness Platform With Over 5M People|last=Staff|date=February 3, 2015|work=HIT Consultant|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232808/https://hitconsultant.net/2015/02/03/rally-health-launches-digital-health-platform/|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}})</ref> The close relations between UnitedHealth, Audax Health and Rally Health follows a close personal relationship between Grant Vrestandig (Audax and Rally) and UnitedHealth's [[President (corporate title)|President]] and [[CFO]] at the time, David Wichmann.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Moukheiber|first=Zina|date=February 3, 2015|title=UnitedHealth Group Launches Wellness Program Tied To Premiums|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/zinamoukheiber/2015/02/03/unitedhealth-group-launches-wellness-program-tied-to-premiums/#47572c396194|journal=Forbes|access-date=January 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121232657/https://www.forbes.com/sites/zinamoukheiber/2015/02/03/unitedhealth-group-launches-wellness-program-tied-to-premiums/#47572c396194|archive-date=January 21, 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
In June 2019, UnitedHealth's [[Optum]] division acquired Davita Medical Group from [[DaVita Inc.]] for $4.3 billion.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.optum.com/about/news/optum-completes-acquisition-davita.html | title=Optum completes acquisition of DaVita Medical Group from DaVita | publisher=[[Optum]] | date=June 19, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190622155110/https://www.optum.com/about/news/optum-completes-acquisition-davita.html | archive-date=June 22, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190619005805/en/Optum-Completes-Acquisition-DaVita-Medical-Group-DaVita | title=Optum completes acquisition of DaVita Medical Group from DaVita | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=June 19, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021142/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190619005805/en/Optum-Completes-Acquisition-DaVita-Medical-Group-DaVita | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2019/06/19/unitedhealth-completes-4-billion-acquisition-of.html | title=UnitedHealth completes $4.3 billion acquisition of DaVita physician group | first=Alex | last=Wittenberg | work=[[American City Business Journals]] | date=June 19, 2019}}</ref> That year, the company also agreed to acquire Equian for $3.2 billion.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-agrees-to-buy-payments-firm-equian-for-3-2-billion-11561071058 | title=UnitedHealth Agrees to Buy Payments Firm Equian for $3.2 Billion | first=Cara | last=Lombardo | work= | In June 2019, UnitedHealth's [[Optum]] division acquired Davita Medical Group from [[DaVita Inc.]] for $4.3 billion.<ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.optum.com/about/news/optum-completes-acquisition-davita.html | title=Optum completes acquisition of DaVita Medical Group from DaVita | publisher=[[Optum]] | date=June 19, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190622155110/https://www.optum.com/about/news/optum-completes-acquisition-davita.html | archive-date=June 22, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190619005805/en/Optum-Completes-Acquisition-DaVita-Medical-Group-DaVita | title=Optum completes acquisition of DaVita Medical Group from DaVita | publisher=[[Business Wire]] | date=June 19, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021142/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190619005805/en/Optum-Completes-Acquisition-DaVita-Medical-Group-DaVita | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2019/06/19/unitedhealth-completes-4-billion-acquisition-of.html | title=UnitedHealth completes $4.3 billion acquisition of DaVita physician group | first=Alex | last=Wittenberg | work=[[American City Business Journals]] | date=June 19, 2019}}</ref> That year, the company also agreed to acquire Equian for $3.2 billion.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-agrees-to-buy-payments-firm-equian-for-3-2-billion-11561071058 | title=UnitedHealth Agrees to Buy Payments Firm Equian for $3.2 Billion | first=Cara | last=Lombardo | work=The Wall Street Journal | date=June 20, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623024304/https://www.wsj.com/articles/unitedhealth-agrees-to-buy-payments-firm-equian-for-3-2-billion-11561071058 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-equian-m-a-unitedhealth/unitedhealth-to-buy-healthcare-payments-firm-equian-for-32-billion-wsj-idUSKCN1TL300 | title=UnitedHealth to buy healthcare payments firm Equian for $3.2 billion: WSJ | first=Bhargav | last=Acharya | work=Reuters | date=June 20, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021141/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-equian-m-a-unitedhealth/unitedhealth-to-buy-healthcare-payments-firm-equian-for-32-billion-wsj-idUSKCN1TL300 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.bizjournals.com/twincities/news/2019/06/21/unitedhealth-to-buy-health-payments-business.html | title=UnitedHealth to buy health-payments business Equian for $3.2B, report says | first=Mark | last=Reilly | work=[[American City Business Journals]] | date=June 21, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.cnbc.com/2019/06/21/unitedhealth-to-buy-health-care-payments-firm-equian-for-3point2-billion-wsj.html | title=UnitedHealth to buy health-care payments firm Equian for $3.2 billion: WSJ | agency=Reuters | publisher=[[CNBC]] | date=June 21, 2019 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623022644/https://www.cnbc.com/2019/06/21/unitedhealth-to-buy-health-care-payments-firm-equian-for-3point2-billion-wsj.html | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> On June 19, 2019, UnitedHealth acquired the online [[Platform as a service|patient community platform]] [[PatientsLikeMe]] for an undisclosed amount and it will be incorporated into UnitedHealth Group's research division.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lovett |first1=Laura |last2=Muoio |first2=Dave |url=https://www.mobihealthnews.com/content/unitedhealth-group-acquires-patientslikeme |title=UnitedHealth Group acquires PatientsLikeMe |work=MobiHealthNews |publisher=HIMSS Media |date=2019-06-24 |access-date=2019-06-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190712141035/https://www.mobihealthnews.com/content/unitedhealth-group-acquires-patientslikeme |archive-date=July 12, 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
In November 2019, [[Andrew Witty]] was named president of UnitedHealth, in addition to his role as chief executive of the company's Optum division.<ref>{{Cite web|title=UnitedHealth Group names Optum CEO as president|url=https://www.startribune.com/unitedhealth-group-names-new-president/564813482/|access-date=2020-06-08|website=Star Tribune}}</ref> | In November 2019, [[Andrew Witty]] was named president of UnitedHealth, in addition to his role as chief executive of the company's Optum division.<ref>{{Cite web|title=UnitedHealth Group names Optum CEO as president|url=https://www.startribune.com/unitedhealth-group-names-new-president/564813482/|access-date=2020-06-08|website=Star Tribune}}</ref> | ||
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In February 2024, UnitedHealth Group completed the sale of its operations in Brazil.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-06 |title=Form 8-K |url=https://www.sec.gov/ixviewer/ix.html?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/731766/000073176624000028/unh-20240206.htm |access-date=2024-02-23 |website=www.sec.gov}}</ref> | In February 2024, UnitedHealth Group completed the sale of its operations in Brazil.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-06 |title=Form 8-K |url=https://www.sec.gov/ixviewer/ix.html?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/731766/000073176624000028/unh-20240206.htm |access-date=2024-02-23 |website=www.sec.gov}}</ref> | ||
In February 2022, UnitedHealth announced the acquisition of [[Change Healthcare]], the largest health payments platform in the US, which the [[US Justice Department]] tried to block on antitrust grounds; the sale went through by September.<ref name=ReutersAntitrust>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-launches-antitrust-investigation-into-unitedhealth-wsj-reports-2024-02-27/ |title=US launches antitrust investigation into UnitedHealth, WSJ reports |date=27 February 2024 |publisher= | In February 2022, UnitedHealth announced the acquisition of [[Change Healthcare]], the largest health payments platform in the US, which the [[US Justice Department]] tried to block on antitrust grounds; the sale went through by September.<ref name=ReutersAntitrust>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-launches-antitrust-investigation-into-unitedhealth-wsj-reports-2024-02-27/ |title=US launches antitrust investigation into UnitedHealth, WSJ reports |date=27 February 2024 |publisher=Reuters |access-date=2024-05-01 }}</ref> 18 months later, in February 2024, the subsidiary was brought completely down by the [[2024 Change Healthcare ransomware attack]], and the Justice Department announced that it was opening a new antitrust and [[Medicare (United States)|Medicare]] overcharging probe.<ref name=ReutersAntitrust/> Despite making a ransomware payment, services remained down or incomplete for months. The CEO, Andrew Witty, was called before the [[US House]] and [[US Senate]] to testify about the cyberattack and DoJ concerns.<ref name=ReutersTestimony>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/technology/cybersecurity/unitedhealth-hackers-took-advantage-citrix-vulnerabilty-break-ceo-says-2024-04-29/ |title=UnitedHealth hackers used stolen login credentials to break in, CEO says |date=30 April 2024 |publisher=Reuters |access-date=2024-05-01 }}</ref> In late April 2024, the Senate held a hearing concerning the cyberattack and UnitedHealth's response. Andrew Witty went before the Senate stating that there was both a lack of a strong digital security system in place along with an adequate backup plan. UnitedHealth revealed the hackers did gain access to patient information, but the Senate was informed the company is not yet aware of the extent of the data breach.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Abelson |first1=Reed |last2=Weiland |first2=Noah |date=2024-05-01 |title=Senators Slam UnitedHealth's C.E.O. Over Cyberattack |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/01/health/united-health-cyberattack-senate.html |access-date=2024-05-13 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> | ||
==Organizational structure== | ==Organizational structure== | ||
| Line 97: | Line 97: | ||
It is organized into three businesses: | It is organized into three businesses: | ||
* OptumHealth – provides primary and secondary care.<ref name="Byers" /><ref name="CVS Factbox">{{cite web |title=Factbox: Which CVS Rivals Also Own Primary Care Services |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/which-cvs-rivals-also-own-primary-care-services-2023-02-08/ |website= | * OptumHealth – provides primary and secondary care.<ref name="Byers" /><ref name="CVS Factbox">{{cite web |title=Factbox: Which CVS Rivals Also Own Primary Care Services |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/which-cvs-rivals-also-own-primary-care-services-2023-02-08/ |website=Reuters |access-date=27 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419191633/https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/which-cvs-rivals-also-own-primary-care-services-2023-02-08/ |archive-date=19 April 2023 |language=en |date=8 February 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> | ||
* OptumInsight – provides data analytics, technology, and operations services.<ref name="Byers" /> | * OptumInsight – provides data analytics, technology, and operations services.<ref name="Byers" /> | ||
* OptumRX – provides pharmacy services.<ref name="Byers" /> | * OptumRX – provides pharmacy services.<ref name="Byers" /> | ||
| Line 266: | Line 266: | ||
===Legal issues=== | ===Legal issues=== | ||
In 2006, the [[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] (SEC) began investigating the conduct of UnitedHealth Group's management and directors, for [[Options backdating|backdating of stock options]]. Investigations were also begun by the [[Internal Revenue Service]] and prosecutors in the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of New York, who subpoenaed documents from the company. The investigations came to light after a series of probing stories in the ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' in May 2006, discussing apparent backdating of hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of [[stock options]] by UHC management. The backdating apparently occurred with the knowledge and approval of the directors, according to the ''Journal''. Major shareholders have filed lawsuits accusing former [[New Jersey]] governor [[Thomas Kean]] and UHC's other directors of failing in their fiduciary duty.<ref>{{cite news | first=Joe | last=Conason | url=https://www.salon.com/2006/09/15/kean_3/ | title=Jersey hustler | work=[[Salon (website)|Salon]] | date=September 15, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161747/https://www.salon.com/2006/09/15/kean_3/ | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> On October 15, 2006, CEO [[William W. McGuire]] was forced to resign, and relinquish hundreds of millions of dollars in stock options. On December 6, 2007, the SEC announced a settlement under which McGuire will repay $468 million, as a partial settlement of the backdating prosecution.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.law360.com/articles/41799/ex-unitedhealth-ceo-to-pay-800m-in-settlements | title=Ex-UnitedHealth CEO To Pay $800M In Settlements | work=[[Law360]] | date=December 6, 2007 | url-access=subscription | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161744/https://www.law360.com/articles/41799/ex-unitedhealth-ceo-to-pay-800m-in-settlements | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | title=FORMER UNITED HEALTH GROUP CEO/CHAIRMAN SETTLES STOCK OPTIONS BACKDATING CASE FOR $468 MILLION | publisher=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] | date=December 6, 2007 | access-date=September 17, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152829/https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | archive-date=July 11, 2017 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.post-gazette.com/business/businessnews/2007/12/07/UnitedHealth-s-ex-CEO-to-forfeit-millions-to-settle-suit/stories/200712070141 | title=UnitedHealth's ex-CEO to forfeit millions to settle suit | first=JOSHUA | last=FREED | agency= | In 2006, the [[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] (SEC) began investigating the conduct of UnitedHealth Group's management and directors, for [[Options backdating|backdating of stock options]]. Investigations were also begun by the [[Internal Revenue Service]] and prosecutors in the U.S. attorney's office for the Southern District of New York, who subpoenaed documents from the company. The investigations came to light after a series of probing stories in the ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' in May 2006, discussing apparent backdating of hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of [[stock options]] by UHC management. The backdating apparently occurred with the knowledge and approval of the directors, according to the ''Journal''. Major shareholders have filed lawsuits accusing former [[New Jersey]] governor [[Thomas Kean]] and UHC's other directors of failing in their fiduciary duty.<ref>{{cite news | first=Joe | last=Conason | url=https://www.salon.com/2006/09/15/kean_3/ | title=Jersey hustler | work=[[Salon (website)|Salon]] | date=September 15, 2006 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161747/https://www.salon.com/2006/09/15/kean_3/ | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> On October 15, 2006, CEO [[William W. McGuire]] was forced to resign, and relinquish hundreds of millions of dollars in stock options. On December 6, 2007, the SEC announced a settlement under which McGuire will repay $468 million, as a partial settlement of the backdating prosecution.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.law360.com/articles/41799/ex-unitedhealth-ceo-to-pay-800m-in-settlements | title=Ex-UnitedHealth CEO To Pay $800M In Settlements | work=[[Law360]] | date=December 6, 2007 | url-access=subscription | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161744/https://www.law360.com/articles/41799/ex-unitedhealth-ceo-to-pay-800m-in-settlements | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite press release | url=https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | title=FORMER UNITED HEALTH GROUP CEO/CHAIRMAN SETTLES STOCK OPTIONS BACKDATING CASE FOR $468 MILLION | publisher=[[U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission]] | date=December 6, 2007 | access-date=September 17, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152829/https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | archive-date=July 11, 2017 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.post-gazette.com/business/businessnews/2007/12/07/UnitedHealth-s-ex-CEO-to-forfeit-millions-to-settle-suit/stories/200712070141 | title=UnitedHealth's ex-CEO to forfeit millions to settle suit | first=JOSHUA | last=FREED | agency=Associated Press | publisher=[[Pittsburgh Post-Gazette]] | date=December 7, 2007 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161744/https://www.post-gazette.com/business/businessnews/2007/12/07/UnitedHealth-s-ex-CEO-to-forfeit-millions-to-settle-suit/stories/200712070141 | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
On December 6, 2007, the SEC announced a settlement under which McGuire was to repay $468 million, including a $7 million civil penalty, as a partial settlement of the backdating prosecution. He was also barred from serving as an officer or director of a public company for ten years.<ref>[https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm Securities and Exchange Commission v. William W. McGuire, M.D., Civil Action No. 07-CV-4779-JMR/FLN (D. Minn. 2007)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152829/https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | date=July 11, 2017}} U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Litigation Release No. 20387 / December 6, 2007</ref><ref>[https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2007/2007-255.htm Former UnitedHealth Group CEO/Chairman Settles Stock Options Backdating Case for $468 Million] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820011823/http://www.sec.gov/news/press/2007/2007-255.htm | date=August 20, 2014}} SEC Press release 2007-255</ref><ref>[http://www.bio-medicine.org/medicine-news-1/Dr--William-McGuire-Settles-with-the-SEC-and-the-UnitedHealth-Group-Special-Litigation-Committee-on-Stock-Options-Matter-7798-1/ Dr. William McGuire Settles with the SEC and the UnitedHealth Group Special Litigation Committee on Stock Options Matter] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090518044010/http://www.bio-medicine.org/medicine-news-1/Dr--William-McGuire-Settles-with-the-SEC-and-the-UnitedHealth-Group-Special-Litigation-Committee-on-Stock-Options-Matter-7798-1/ | date=May 18, 2009}} Latham and Watkins, LLP, Press release, December 6, 2007</ref> This was the first time in which the little-used "clawback" provision under the [[Sarbanes-Oxley Act]] was used against an individual by the SEC. The SEC continued its investigations even after it in 2008 settled legal actions against both UnitedHealth Group itself and its former general counsel.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2008/2008-302.htm|title=Press Release: SEC Files Settled Enforcement Actions Against UnitedHealth Group and Former General Counsel in Stock Options Backdating Case (Dec. 22, 2008)|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152059/https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2008/2008-302.htm|archive-date=July 11, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | On December 6, 2007, the SEC announced a settlement under which McGuire was to repay $468 million, including a $7 million civil penalty, as a partial settlement of the backdating prosecution. He was also barred from serving as an officer or director of a public company for ten years.<ref>[https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm Securities and Exchange Commission v. William W. McGuire, M.D., Civil Action No. 07-CV-4779-JMR/FLN (D. Minn. 2007)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152829/https://www.sec.gov/litigation/litreleases/2007/lr20387.htm | date=July 11, 2017}} U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Litigation Release No. 20387 / December 6, 2007</ref><ref>[https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2007/2007-255.htm Former UnitedHealth Group CEO/Chairman Settles Stock Options Backdating Case for $468 Million] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820011823/http://www.sec.gov/news/press/2007/2007-255.htm | date=August 20, 2014}} SEC Press release 2007-255</ref><ref>[http://www.bio-medicine.org/medicine-news-1/Dr--William-McGuire-Settles-with-the-SEC-and-the-UnitedHealth-Group-Special-Litigation-Committee-on-Stock-Options-Matter-7798-1/ Dr. William McGuire Settles with the SEC and the UnitedHealth Group Special Litigation Committee on Stock Options Matter] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090518044010/http://www.bio-medicine.org/medicine-news-1/Dr--William-McGuire-Settles-with-the-SEC-and-the-UnitedHealth-Group-Special-Litigation-Committee-on-Stock-Options-Matter-7798-1/ | date=May 18, 2009}} Latham and Watkins, LLP, Press release, December 6, 2007</ref> This was the first time in which the little-used "clawback" provision under the [[Sarbanes-Oxley Act]] was used against an individual by the SEC. The SEC continued its investigations even after it in 2008 settled legal actions against both UnitedHealth Group itself and its former general counsel.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2008/2008-302.htm|title=Press Release: SEC Files Settled Enforcement Actions Against UnitedHealth Group and Former General Counsel in Stock Options Backdating Case (Dec. 22, 2008)|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170711152059/https://www.sec.gov/news/press/2008/2008-302.htm|archive-date=July 11, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
| Line 275: | Line 275: | ||
In February 2008, New York State Attorney General [[Andrew Cuomo]] announced an industry-wide investigation into a scheme by health insurers to defraud consumers by manipulating reasonable and customary rates. The announcement included a statement that Cuomo intended "to file suit against Ingenix, Inc., its parent UnitedHealth Group, and three additional subsidiaries." Cuomo asserted that his investigation found that rates found in a database of health care charges maintained by Ingenix were lower than what he determined was the actual cost of certain medical expenses. Cuomo said this inappropriately allowed health insurance companies to deny a portion of provider claims, thereby pushing costs down to members.<ref>[http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2008/feb/feb13a_08.html "Cuomo Announces Industry-Wide Investigation into Health Insurer's Fraudulent Reimbursement Scheme"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080330043123/http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2008/feb/feb13a_08.html | date=March 30, 2008}}, press release, Office of the Attorney General, New York State, February 13, 2008</ref> | In February 2008, New York State Attorney General [[Andrew Cuomo]] announced an industry-wide investigation into a scheme by health insurers to defraud consumers by manipulating reasonable and customary rates. The announcement included a statement that Cuomo intended "to file suit against Ingenix, Inc., its parent UnitedHealth Group, and three additional subsidiaries." Cuomo asserted that his investigation found that rates found in a database of health care charges maintained by Ingenix were lower than what he determined was the actual cost of certain medical expenses. Cuomo said this inappropriately allowed health insurance companies to deny a portion of provider claims, thereby pushing costs down to members.<ref>[http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2008/feb/feb13a_08.html "Cuomo Announces Industry-Wide Investigation into Health Insurer's Fraudulent Reimbursement Scheme"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080330043123/http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2008/feb/feb13a_08.html | date=March 30, 2008}}, press release, Office of the Attorney General, New York State, February 13, 2008</ref> | ||
On January 13, 2009, Ingenix announced an agreement with the New York State attorney settling the probe into the independence of the health pricing database. Under the settlement, UnitedHealth Group and Ingenix would pay $50 million to finance a new, non-profit entity that would develop a new health care pricing database. Ingenix would discontinue its medical pricing databases when the new entity makes its product available. The company acknowledged the appearance of a conflict of interest but admitted no wrongdoing.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/unitedhealth/update-2-unitedhealth-settles-new-york-reimbursement-probe-idUSN1338639920090113 |title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth settles New York reimbursement probe |work= | On January 13, 2009, Ingenix announced an agreement with the New York State attorney settling the probe into the independence of the health pricing database. Under the settlement, UnitedHealth Group and Ingenix would pay $50 million to finance a new, non-profit entity that would develop a new health care pricing database. Ingenix would discontinue its medical pricing databases when the new entity makes its product available. The company acknowledged the appearance of a conflict of interest but admitted no wrongdoing.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/unitedhealth/update-2-unitedhealth-settles-new-york-reimbursement-probe-idUSN1338639920090113 |title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth settles New York reimbursement probe |work=Reuters |date=January 13, 2009 |access-date=June 23, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623161749/https://www.reuters.com/article/unitedhealth/update-2-unitedhealth-settles-new-york-reimbursement-probe-idUSN1338639920090113 |archive-date=June 23, 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> | ||
On January 15, 2009, UnitedHealth Group announced a $350 million settlement of three class action lawsuits filed in Federal court by the [[American Medical Association]], UnitedHealth Group members, healthcare providers, and state medical societies for not paying out-of-network benefits. This settlement came two days after a similar settlement with Cuomo.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/unitedhealth/update-2-unitedhealth-settles-payment-suits-for-350-million-idUSN1531133620090115 | title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth settles payment suits for $350 million| first=Lewis | last=Krauskopf |date=January 15, 2009 | work= | On January 15, 2009, UnitedHealth Group announced a $350 million settlement of three class action lawsuits filed in Federal court by the [[American Medical Association]], UnitedHealth Group members, healthcare providers, and state medical societies for not paying out-of-network benefits. This settlement came two days after a similar settlement with Cuomo.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/unitedhealth/update-2-unitedhealth-settles-payment-suits-for-350-million-idUSN1531133620090115 | title=UPDATE 2-UnitedHealth settles payment suits for $350 million| first=Lewis | last=Krauskopf |date=January 15, 2009 | work=Reuters | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090220052804/http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssHealthcareNews/idUSN1531133620090115|archive-date=February 20, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
On October 27, 2009, Cuomo announced the creation of FAIR Health, the independent, non-profit organization that will develop a nationwide database for consumer reimbursement, as well as a website where consumers will be able to compare prices before they choose doctors. To fund FAIR Health, the Attorney General's office secured nearly $100 million from insurers such as [[Aetna]], UnitedHealth Group, and [[Anthem Inc.]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cuomo-healthcare/cuomo-sets-healthcare-reimbursement-reform-idUSTRE59Q3D320091027 |title=Cuomo sets healthcare reimbursement reform| first=Jonathan | last=Stempel | On October 27, 2009, Cuomo announced the creation of FAIR Health, the independent, non-profit organization that will develop a nationwide database for consumer reimbursement, as well as a website where consumers will be able to compare prices before they choose doctors. To fund FAIR Health, the Attorney General's office secured nearly $100 million from insurers such as [[Aetna]], UnitedHealth Group, and [[Anthem Inc.]]<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cuomo-healthcare/cuomo-sets-healthcare-reimbursement-reform-idUSTRE59Q3D320091027 |title=Cuomo sets healthcare reimbursement reform| first=Jonathan | last=Stempel | ||
| date=October 27, 2009 | work= | | date=October 27, 2009 | work=Reuters | url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091031200023/http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSTRE59Q3D320091027|archive-date=October 31, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
====Medicare overbilling lawsuit==== | ====Medicare overbilling lawsuit==== | ||
A whistleblower lawsuit, filed in 2011, charges UnitedHealth Group's data analytics division with assisting in defrauding [[Medicare (United States)|Medicare]] by boosting risk adjustment scores from [[Medicare Advantage]] companies. The suit alleges that UnitedHealth Group subsidiary Ingenix (now OptumInsight) "defrauded the United States of hundreds of millions — and likely billions — of dollars." Former UnitedHealth executive Benjamin Poehling brought the suit under the [[False Claims Act]]. The government said it would proceed on claims against two health care companies, UnitedHealth and its Texas subsidiary WellMed Medical Management. In February 2017, a federal judge unsealed the suit after the [[United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice]] announced it would join the case.<ref>{{cite news| last1=Williams Walsh | first1=Mary | title=UnitedHealth Group accused of overbilling Medicare | url=https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/unitedhealth-group-accused-of-overbilling-medicare/2313611/ | work= | A whistleblower lawsuit, filed in 2011, charges UnitedHealth Group's data analytics division with assisting in defrauding [[Medicare (United States)|Medicare]] by boosting risk adjustment scores from [[Medicare Advantage]] companies. The suit alleges that UnitedHealth Group subsidiary Ingenix (now OptumInsight) "defrauded the United States of hundreds of millions — and likely billions — of dollars." Former UnitedHealth executive Benjamin Poehling brought the suit under the [[False Claims Act]]. The government said it would proceed on claims against two health care companies, UnitedHealth and its Texas subsidiary WellMed Medical Management. In February 2017, a federal judge unsealed the suit after the [[United States Department of Justice|Department of Justice]] announced it would join the case.<ref>{{cite news| last1=Williams Walsh | first1=Mary | title=UnitedHealth Group accused of overbilling Medicare | url=https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/unitedhealth-group-accused-of-overbilling-medicare/2313611/ | work=The New York Times | date=February 17, 2017|language=en-us|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217181015/http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/unitedhealth-group-accused-of-overbilling-medicare/2313611| archive-date=February 17, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Snowbeck| first1=Christopher| title=UnitedHealth Group targeted by whistleblower lawsuit|url=http://www.startribune.com/unitedhealth-group-targeted-by-whistleblower-lawsuit/414083943/ |work=Star Tribune|date=February 17, 2017|url-status=live| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217173422/http://www.startribune.com/unitedhealth-group-targeted-by-whistleblower-lawsuit/414083943/|archive-date=February 17, 2017|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | ||
====''Richard Cole, and others v. United Healthcare''==== | ====''Richard Cole, and others v. United Healthcare''==== | ||
| Line 308: | Line 308: | ||
The organization has existed for about 40 years and has maintained a nonpartisan reputation through its many ownership changes that have occurred over that time.<ref name="Becker"/> | The organization has existed for about 40 years and has maintained a nonpartisan reputation through its many ownership changes that have occurred over that time.<ref name="Becker"/> | ||
The Lewin Group was purchased in 2007 by Ingenix, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, but alleges editorial and analytical "independence" from UnitedHealth Group, its parent company.<ref name="Becker"/> | The Lewin Group was purchased in 2007 by Ingenix, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, but alleges editorial and analytical "independence" from UnitedHealth Group, its parent company.<ref name="Becker"/> | ||
The Lewin Group discloses its ownership in its reports and on its website. While the Lewin Group does not advocate for or against any legislation, both | The Lewin Group discloses its ownership in its reports and on its website. While the Lewin Group does not advocate for or against any legislation, both Democratic and [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] politicians frequently cite the firm's studies to argue for and against various [[U.S. healthcare reform]] proposals.<ref>{{Cite news |url= https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/22/AR2009072203696.html | title=Insurer-Owned Consulting Firm Often Cited in Health Debate | first= David S. | last=Hilzenrah | newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date= July 23, 2009 | url-status= live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171020174034/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/22/AR2009072203696.html |archive-date = October 20, 2017 |df= mdy-all | ||
}}</ref> For example, Democratic Senator [[Ron Wyden]] uses Lewin Group estimates to cite the feasibility of his [[Healthy Americans Act]].<ref>{{Cite press release | url=https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/independent-health-reform-analysis-middle-class-wins-under-healthy-americans-act | title=Independent Health Reform Analysis: Middle Class Wins Under Healthy Americans Act | publisher=[[Ron Wyden]] | date=September 17, 2008 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021139/https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/independent-health-reform-analysis-middle-class-wins-under-healthy-americans-act | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> Former U.S. Representative [[Eric Cantor]], the former House Republican [[Party whips of the United States House of Representatives|Whip]], has referred to the organization as "the nonpartisan Lewin Group" in arguing against government-funded health insurance proposals. | }}</ref> For example, Democratic Senator [[Ron Wyden]] uses Lewin Group estimates to cite the feasibility of his [[Healthy Americans Act]].<ref>{{Cite press release | url=https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/independent-health-reform-analysis-middle-class-wins-under-healthy-americans-act | title=Independent Health Reform Analysis: Middle Class Wins Under Healthy Americans Act | publisher=[[Ron Wyden]] | date=September 17, 2008 | access-date=June 23, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190623021139/https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/independent-health-reform-analysis-middle-class-wins-under-healthy-americans-act | archive-date=June 23, 2019 | url-status=live }}</ref> Former U.S. Representative [[Eric Cantor]], the former House Republican [[Party whips of the United States House of Representatives|Whip]], has referred to the organization as "the nonpartisan Lewin Group" in arguing against government-funded health insurance proposals. | ||