Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into UnitedHealth Group for allegedly engaging in deceptive and unlawful practices that deny Texans access to medically necessary healthcare.
The investigation focuses on UnitedHealth's coverage determinations—decisions that may override physicians' medical judgment and delay necessary treatment. Reports indicate UnitedHealth allegedly bribed nursing homes to delay hospitalizing patients who needed medical care.
The Attorney General cited one case involving a Texas patient who received approval from UnitedHealth for a procedure at RedBud Surgery Center in Austin. After the procedure, UnitedHealth sent a second letter withdrawing approval and leaving the patient with a large medical bill.
The Attorney General's office has issued Civil Investigative Demands to UnitedHealth to gather evidence of potential violations of Texas law.
Attorney General Paxton said: "No Texan should be denied medically necessary care, dragged through endless appeals, or stuck with devastating bills after trusting their insurer's word."