Connecticut lawmakers and advocates are calling for an investigation into UnitedHealthcare for running allegedly deceptive ads to lure more than 90,000 residents into unnecessary Medicare Advantage plans.
The ads, which ran in newspapers, as well as on the radio and on television in late November and early December, claimed that people eligible for Medicaid and Medicare could unlock extra health benefits through a special plan.
But according to U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the plans are not advantageous.
“What these dual eligible recipients got was the same benefits, but additional burdens,” Blumenthal said. “Pre-approval, more extensive and restricted. And networks with more limited access, and more difficult, with no additional benefits.”
Sheldon Toubman from Disability Rights Connecticut said the advertised plans are more restrictive than typical Medicare and Medicaid coverage.
“Part of the problem with the Medicare Advantage plans is they have a more narrow network than under traditional Medicare,” Toubman said. “And unfortunately, though you're also on Medicaid, if you're a dually eligible person, you then have to go only to those doctors for anything covered under Medicare.”
Blumenthal called on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to investigate the advertising and give customers the opportunity to change their plans.
“The federal authorities with responsibility should impose substantial penalties on United Healthcare for this deceptive and misleading advertising,” Blumenthal said. “And there should be an open enrollment period for those individuals who signed up for this Medicare Advantage plan.”
UnitedHealthcare denied the allegations.
“All UnitedHealthcare DSNP plans in Connecticut allow members to see any provider that accepts Medicare, and they offer better benefits when compared to Medicaid alone, including enhanced dental and vision benefits and a monthly healthy food, OTC and utilities credit,” UHC said in a statement to WSHU. “Our plan benefits are filed and approved by CMS and our advertising factually describes these benefits and is filed in accordance with CMS [Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services] guidance.”
Additionally, UHC said Medicaid Advantage Open Enrollment runs between January 1 and March 31, so customers can change their plan if they choose.
