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Congressman Pat Ryan is urging Hudson Valley residents to share their concerns about potential Medicaid cuts at a community speak out in Poughkeepsie. Scheduled for Tuesday (April 15) at the Town of Poughkeepsie Senior Center from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., the event comes after Ryan released a report highlighting issues faced by Optum customers in the region.
The report, based on over 1,800 responses, details declining quality of care, increased fees, and customer service issues at Optum-owned medical practices. According to Ryan's office, 41% of respondents reported a reduction in care quality, while 49% had difficulty securing appointments. The congressman has submitted the findings to the Department of Justice, Department of Health and Human Services, and Federal Trade Commission for further investigation.
Optum, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, has acquired numerous medical practices in the Hudson Valley, including CareMount Medical and Crystal Run Healthcare. The acquisitions have led to concerns about the impact on local healthcare services. Ryan's survey also revealed that over one-third of respondents experienced serious customer service issues, often due to long wait times and inaccessible phone systems.
The speak out aims to provide a platform for residents to voice their experiences and push for improvements. Ryan emphasizes the importance of community input in advocating for better healthcare services and holding corporations accountable for their practices.