Jeff Lagasse
The agreement will focus on access to Cigna's PPO provider network and on specialty pharmacy services, with an eye to improving affordability.
There was a 7% higher risk of developing a breakthrough infection when compared to those without a behavioral health issue.
The system framed the investment as part of an overall push to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Its application will be in clinical settings, where trained operators will conduct the test under the supervision of a licensed professional.
After a $1 billion loss last year, the company will no longer offer individual or family plans in six states.
UnitedHealth Group attributed Optum's growth to the accelerating expansion of its value-based care delivery initiatives.
The system expects the rebranding will enable stronger care coordination, less costly duplication and more effective nurse and physician recruitment.
A proposed "Birthing-Friendly" hospital designation will soon be released as part of the Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System proposed rule.
Fifty-eight lawsuits were filed in 2021, with 43 of them filed against healthcare organizations, the largest percentage among all industries.
The trend is expected to continue this year, with drug spending poised to grow 4 to 6%, driven by increases in utilization, prices and new drugs.