Texas Attorney General and U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into UnitedHealth Group.
An Oct. 5 news release said the investigation resulted from allegations of “deceptive and unlawful practices” that could have denied Texans medically necessary care. Mr. Paxton’s office said there had been reports alleging the company “bribed nursing homes to delay hospitalizing patients who needed medical care.”
The release also said there is a concern that coverage determinations could override physicians’ medical judgment.
Mr. Paxton issued Civil Investigative Demands to UnitedHealth to assess its adherence to state laws.
In late September, Mr. Paxton’s office said it also launched an investigation into Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and its parent company, Health Care Service Corp., regarding possible care denials and delays, as well as prior authorization concerns.
Becker’s has reached out to UnitedHealth for comment and will update this story if more information becomes available.
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