Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Monday that his office has opened a second investigation into a major health insurer, UnitedHealth Group. The inquiry stems from reports that UnitedHealth allegedly delayed hospitalizations and revoked coverage approvals, leaving patients to shoulder unexpected medical bills.
Allegations prompting the probe
According to the AG’s office, the investigation will examine whether UnitedHealth engaged in deceptive practices or violated state law. One complaint alleges that the company “bribed” nursing homes to postpone sending residents to hospitals, potentially endangering vulnerable patients. Another account describes a patient whose surgery proceeded before UnitedHealth withdrew its prior approval, resulting in the individual being billed for the entire procedure.
UnitedHealth Group has not responded to requests for comment, and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, the subject of a prior investigation announced a week earlier, declined to comment as well.
Context of the investigations
The two probes reflect the Paxton administration’s focus on protecting Texans from what it characterizes as unfair insurance practices. By targeting large national insurers operating in the state, the AG’s office aims to ensure that medically necessary care is not obstructed for financial reasons.
Both investigations are part of a broader effort by the Texas attorney general’s office to enforce consumer‑protection statutes and hold health‑care providers accountable for actions that may harm patients.
Political backdrop
While the investigations are underway, Paxton is also campaigning for a U.S. Senate seat. He faces Democrat James Talarico in a closely watched race. A recent Fox News poll shows Talarico with a slight lead over Paxton, though the margin is narrow and the sample composition was not disclosed.
Paxton’s campaign emphasizes his record of defending Texans against corporate overreach, positioning the health‑insurer investigations as evidence of his commitment to personal liberty and family well‑being.
What’s next?
The attorney general’s office has not set a timeline for the investigation’s conclusion. If evidence of wrongdoing is found, the AG could pursue civil penalties, injunctions, or other remedies to protect patients.
Consumers who believe they have been affected by delayed or denied care are encouraged to contact the AG’s consumer‑protection division to report their experiences.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
