To the editor: In a recent column, Robin Abcarian highlighted the struggles faced by a single mother whose child is battling leukemia. This mother was forced to pay $900 per month out of pocket for her child’s essential feeding device after UnitedHealthcare, her insurance provider, refused to cover the expense. She rightly questioned whether this issue is systemic (“UnitedHealthcare’s chief executive was shot dead. Why did thousands react with glee?” Opinion, Dec. 6).
As both a Medicare patient and a physician, I can affirm that it indeed reflects a larger systemic problem. It is symptomatic of our troubled and expensive healthcare insurance system, a system that leaves about 85 million individuals either uninsured or inadequately covered. It creates a real fear that we, along with our families, won’t have access to necessary care when we need it most.
There is a growing concern that insurance companies, drug manufacturers, and Wall Street influencers will pressure our legislators and the president to dismantle traditional Medicare. They aim to replace it with profit-driven approaches like Medicare Advantage, stripping away our freedom to choose our doctors and hospitals.
Many Americans are suffering under our current healthcare system, and without significant reform toward a universal, publicly funded, and not-for-profit model, the situation is unlikely to improve.
Dr. Robert Vinetz, Los Angeles
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To the editor: The public’s outrage in the aftermath of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder resonates deeply with my own experiences during my 12-year cancer battle.
One of my treatments, following its recent FDA approval, was a costly radio-immunotherapy. I had initially gained pre-approval from UnitedHealthcare, but after the treatment failed to work, I was saddled with an unexpected $85,000 bill six months later. When I reached out to the insurer, I learned they routinely denied coverage post-treatment for newly approved therapies. Thankfully, persistence paid off and they reversed their decision after my call.
Cancer patients already face enough challenges with their health; grappling with insurance companies only adds to the burden.
Laurie S. Adami, Los Angeles
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To the editor: My intention in writing is to extend my condolences to Thompson’s family and friends. Not everyone is rejoicing over his tragic death by gun violence. I want them to know that I am truly sorry for their loss.
While I understand the anger of those who’ve been denied coverage by UnitedHealthcare, I urge caution in expressing sentiments online. Words have weight, and once shared online, they remain accessible indefinitely.
Relating your frustrating insurance experiences is one thing, but expressing joy over violence could reflect poorly on you in the future.
Marie Puterbaugh, Redondo Beach
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To the editor: It’s wrong to take a life, whether in the violent manner that ended Thompson’s or through the indirect harm caused when health insurers deny or delay necessary care.
This denial is a core part of their business strategy aimed at boosting profits, which they claim funds new product and service development.
I wish Thompson were alive and that such harmful practices were replaced by a streamlined, publicly funded health system that prioritizes saving lives and reducing costs. The anticipated Department of Government Efficiency should investigate these practices, ensuring our tax money is spent wisely through strategic purchasing and price negotiation.
James Sarantinos, Los Angeles
