UnitedHealth Group Shareholders Demand Care Access Report

A coalition of shareholders from UnitedHealth Group has filed a proposal demanding a report on the public health and economic impacts of the company's practices that lead to denied or delayed care. This initiative, spearheaded by the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, follows heightened scrutiny of UnitedHealth after the recent murder of CEO Brian Thompson, which has sparked criticism of health insurers for prioritizing profits over patient care. The shareholders argue that UnitedHealth's prior authorization requirements and coverage denials contribute to adverse health outcomes, increased consumer debt, and may jeopardize the company’s long-term financial stability. They emphasize that the company’s practices could harm its reputation and investor portfolios, potentially impacting U.S. economic health. UnitedHealth has yet to respond specifically to this proposal but previously defended its claims processing, asserting that it pays 90% of medical claims upon submission. The proposal is set to be voted on at the company's upcoming annual meeting in 2025.