Health Insurance Profits and Shareholder Enrichment

Major health insurance companies, including UnitedHealth Group, have profited significantly post-Affordable Care Act, investing $120 billion in stock buybacks, largely benefiting shareholders over patients. UnitedHealth itself accounted for approximately $54 billion of this amount, highlighting its dominance in enriching executives and investors while neglecting healthcare access for Americans. This practice has resulted in rising medical debt for many, as a third of the population struggles with inadequate coverage and exorbitant costs. The systemic prioritization of profits over patient care illustrates a broader issue within the capitalist healthcare model, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.