Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into UnitedHealth, alleging that the company uses deceptive and unlawful practices to prevent Texans from receiving medically necessary care. The probe includes civil investigative demands seeking evidence of potential violations of the Deceptive Trade Practices Act and other state laws.
Paxton's office cited "alarming reports" of denied care, including an allegation that UnitedHealth paid nursing homes to keep members out of hospitals. In one case, the company reportedly approved a patient's treatment at an Austin surgical center but withdrew approval after the procedure was completed, leaving the patient with a large bill.
UnitedHealth did not respond to a request for comment. The Texas investigation adds to existing scrutiny from the Department of Justice, federal watchdogs, and lawmakers over Medicare billing practices and nursing home care denials. It also follows a separate Texas probe into Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas announced late last month.
Paxton is stepping up oversight of insurers as voters increasingly demand action against healthcare corporations. The attorney general is currently in a tight Senate race against Democrat James Talarico.