UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson Shot Dead

UnitedHealthcare is facing intense scrutiny for its high claim denial rates, particularly following the fatal shooting of its CEO, Brian Thompson, in Manhattan. A Senate subcommittee report revealed that the denial rate for post-acute care claims has surged from 10.9% in 2020 to 22.7% in 2022, with skilled nursing centers hit hardest; the report links these trends to the insurer's increased reliance on AI for processing claims. Recent polls indicate that healthcare-related expenses are the leading cause of bankruptcy in the U.S., and many Americans report delayed medical care due to costs, prompting calls for reform. Amid growing frustration, Thompson's death, which has been deemed a targeted attack, coincides with rising protests against the company's practices, emphasizing a culture of denial in the health insurance industry. Critics argue that the company's tactics not only harm patients but also strain relationships with healthcare providers, leading some to refuse accepting UnitedHealthcare's insurance. The situation illustrates a broader issue within the healthcare system, where private insurers are seen as barriers to necessary care.