Twenty-six UnitedHealthcare (United) plans have settled with 37 state insurance commissioners over alleged violations of state laws and regulations relating to prompt and fair claims payment. The settlement provides more evidence that physicians across the country have been systematically exploited by the unfair claims handling and payment practices of United.

While the AMA is encouraged by this effort to hold an oppressive health insurer accountable to state laws and regulations, the settlement is vague in many areas, particularly in regard to physician restitution. The AMA is working with state medical associations to obtain clarification and guidance from the state insurance commissioners on how the settlement terms will be interpreted and enforced for the benefit of patients and physicians.

Visit the AMA website to access a fact sheet on the settlement and to download the settlement agreement.

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