UnitedHealth discontinues a controversial brand amid scrutiny of algorithmic care denials

UnitedHealth Group and Optum are getting rid of the name of their tech-driven care management company just months after the company faced congressional criticism over the use of its algorithms to cut off payments for patients’ care.

Discontinuing the NaviHealth name is part of a broader rebranding of Optum’s division that provides services to people at home and in post-acute facilities. The move also encapsulates how UnitedHealth is pushing to control every piece of patient care outside of the hospital and distancing itself from the aspects that have generated controversy.

Starting in the first quarter of 2024, Optum’s post-acute-care companies will be called Home & Community Care, according to internal documents obtained by STAT. However, Optum advised employees that “Home & Community Care should not be directly next to the Optum logo” in marketing materials.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

Already have an account? Log in

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts.

Already have an account? Log in

Individual plans

Group plans

Monthly

$39

Totals $468 per year

$39/month Get Started

Totals $468 per year

Starter

$30

for 3 months, then $399/year

$30 for 3 months Get Started

Then $399/year

Annual

$399

Save 15%

$399/year Get Started

Save 15%

11+ Users

Custom

Savings start at 25%!

Request A Quote Request A Quote

Savings start at 25%!

2-10 Users

$300

Annually per user

$300/year Get Started

$300 Annually per user

View All Plans

To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+.

Subscribe

Log In