UnitedHealthcare Fined for Failing to Ensure Parity in Mental Health Care 

By Consumers for Quality Care, on June 5, 2024

UnitedHealthcare was recently fined $450 million by the Minnesota Department of Commerce for not properly reimbursing consumers for mental health care, according to Minnesota Reformer.  

State law requires insurers to cover treatments and care for mental health just as they would for any other condition, meaning that consumers cannot experience higher copays or face additional prior authorizations for mental health care. According to the State Commerce Department, UnitedHealthcare created unnecessary hurdles for consumers seeking mental health care treatment and prescriptions.  

“Consumers have the right to access mental health care covered by insurance on par with coverage for other medical care,” said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold.  

Part of the fine may be waived if UnitedHealthcare can show the Commerce Department that they are addressing their shortcomings as it relates to mental health coverage.  

UnitedHealth has recently come under scrutiny for its antitrust behavior as well as its rapid growth, which has hurt consumers by decreasing competition, leading to fewer options for care and higher out-of-pocket costs.  

CQC urges lawmakers and regulators to take action to ensure all patients can access the mental health care they need and deserve.