Texas Investigates UnitedHealth Over Alleged Delays in Nursing Home Care

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into UnitedHealth Group over allegations that the insurer paid nursing homes to delay necessary hospitalizations for patients. The probe, announced on Oct. 5, 2026, follows reports that UnitedHealth may have violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act and other state laws. The investigation also examines a case where UnitedHealth allegedly approved a procedure at RedBud Surgery Center in Austin, only to withdraw approval afterward, leaving the patient with a substantial medical bill.

The attorney general's office is also looking into whether UnitedHealth's coverage decisions may have overridden the medical judgment of treating physicians. Paxton stated, "Alarming reports keep piling up about how United treats Texas consumers. I will not tolerate any insurance company putting illegal corporate greed over the people of Texas." UnitedHealth has previously denied similar claims, asserting that the U.S. Department of Justice found no wrongdoing after a multi-year investigation.

The investigation comes on the heels of another probe opened by Paxton's office in late September into Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas over possible care denials and prior authorization issues. UnitedHealth's Medicare Advantage plans are under particular scrutiny, especially for older adults with chronic conditions who may be at risk if hospital transfers are delayed.

Families of nursing home residents are advised to ask facilities about transfer decisions and the involvement of insurance staff. They should also insist on emergency transfers when necessary and file appeals if they face reversed prior authorizations or surprise bills. The attorney general's office has not announced a timeline for reviewing UnitedHealth's response, and the allegations remain unproven.