A leaked video featuring UnitedHealth Group (UNH) CEO Andrew Witty has ignited fresh criticism of the company’s medical claim denial practices, just days after the tragic shooting of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealth’s insurance subsidiary. The video, recorded one day after the incident, showcases Witty defending the company’s approach to evaluating claims, emphasizing the importance of safe and appropriate care.
“We make sure that care is safe, appropriate, and is delivered when people need it, and we guard against pressures for unsafe or unnecessary care that make the system too complex and unsustainable,” Witty said in the video, which was leaked by journalist Ken Klippenstein. The timing and content of his remarks have drawn backlash online, with many questioning the company’s role in claim denials.
Thompson was fatally shot in New York City on the morning of December 4. Reports revealed chilling details, including shell casings at the scene marked with the words “deny,” “defend,” and “depose.” Critics noted these terms are often associated with the practices of insurers when handling claims, fueling speculation about the shooter’s motives.
In the leaked video, Witty praised Thompson’s dedication, saying, “There was no one who did more to try and advance [our mission] than Brian Thompson.” He reiterated UnitedHealth’s commitment to improving the healthcare system and delivering better experiences for individuals.
However, the controversy surrounding UnitedHealthcare’s denial practices is not new. Following the shooting, social media users highlighted claims that the company’s denial rates are among the highest in the industry. While the full scope of these practices remains unclear, recent reports shed light on concerning trends.
A U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations report published in October revealed that insurers, including UnitedHealthcare, have used AI tools to deny claims for Medicare Advantage plan subscribers. The report noted a significant rise in denial rates for post-acute care among UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage customers, climbing from 10.9% in 2020 to 22.7% in 2022.
The leaked video has intensified public scrutiny, with dozens sharing their negative experiences with UnitedHealth Group on social media. Critics argue that the company’s claim practices prioritize profits over patient care, adding further pressure on Witty and his team to address these allegations.
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