In a significant regulatory action, North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey has imposed a $3.4 million fine on UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina Inc. and its affiliate, UnitedHealthcare Insurance Co. This penalty follows a comprehensive four-year investigation into the company's claims handling practices, particularly concerning balance billing violations.
Balance billing occurs when out-of-network healthcare providers charge patients the difference between their fees and the amount covered by insurance, often leading to unexpected and substantial medical bills for patients. The North Carolina Department of Insurance's investigation revealed that UnitedHealthcare failed to protect members from these unforeseen. . .