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Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson, representing parts of Ulster County, is urging the state attorney general to investigate Optum Health. Jacobson claims that since Optum's acquisition of local health care providers, the quality of care has declined. Optum, a subsidiary of UnitedHealthcare, took over CareMount Medical in 2022 and Crystal Run Healthcare in 2023. Jacobson argues that these mergers were approved with the promise of improved services, but patients are now facing longer wait times for routine and specialized treatments.
According to Mid Hudson News, Jacobson stated, "We need an inquiry into the lack of services due to the takeover of these health facilities by Optum." He also expressed concerns about the potential monopolistic practices of Optum's vertical integration, which he believes stifles competition and limits patient options.
A recent community inquiry, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, found "deeply troubling" issues with Optum's care quality, accessibility, and billing practices, according to Daily Freeman. The inquiry gathered 1,800 responses highlighting significant problems.
Optum's president and regional chief medical officer maintains that the company is committed to providing quality health care. Jacobson is calling for the attorney general to determine if Optum's practices are anti-competitive and violate any laws. The outcome of this request remains to be seen.