"DOJ Launches Antitrust Probe Into UnitedHealth Group's Medicare Advantage Dominance"
The U.S. Justice Department has initiated an antitrust investigation into UnitedHealth Group, the largest health insurance company, focusing on its dominance in the healthcare industry, including its Medicare Advantage plans. Critics argue that UnitedHealth's consolidation has led to higher costs, worse care, and unfair practices such as denying necessary care and overcharging the federal government. The company's subsidiary, Optum, is also under scrutiny for its acquisition of a home healthcare provider. UnitedHealth's practices have drawn criticism from the Biden administration and Democratic lawmakers, with allegations of using AI algorithms to deny care and pressuring employees to deny coverage.