US senators launch major investigation into UnitedHealth’s nursing home practices

By Gizem Nisa Demir

ISTANBUL (AA) - Two leading US senators, Ron Wyden and Elizabeth Warren, have initiated a sweeping inquiry into UnitedHealth Group in response to troubling allegations that its nursing home practices place vulnerable patients at risk in pursuit of financial gain.

The Hill reported that Sen. Ron Wyden and Sen. Elizabeth Warren said Thursday they were dissatisfied with the company’s previous responses and are demanding detailed answers from CEO Stephen J. Hemsley by Sept. 8, according to local press.

In a letter dated Aug. 6 and addressed to CEO Stephen J. Hemsley, the senators expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s prior responses and set a deadline of Sept. 8 for a detailed reply. They cited “alarming reports” suggesting UnitedHealth is “padding revenues” through policies that "imperil the health, safety, and lives of vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities living in nursing homes."

The investigation stems from a May report by The Guardian, which alleged that UnitedHealth offered financial incentives to nursing homes that limited hospitalizations of patients enrolled in its Medicare Advantage plans — leading to dangerous delays in emergency care.

The outlet also reported that Optum staff encouraged residents to sign do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders, which can block critical hospitalization.

Wyden and Warren pointed to UnitedHealth’s Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs) as a key concern, saying they may encourage cost-cutting over care.

These plans, while promoted as efficient alternatives to traditional coverage, have been linked to the increased use of antipsychotics, physical restraints, and resident falls — as well as "a decline in function of nursing home residents," the senators wrote.

UnitedHealth has consistently denied the allegations, referencing a Department of Justice review that declined to pursue charges.

In its response to the senators, the company reaffirmed its support for I SNPs and pledged to continue staff education and promote the model’s benefits for seniors.