UNH · 10-Q · 2026Q3 · Full report

Medical Cost Trends

UNITEDHEALTH GROUP INC · 2026-11-03 · Importance 38 · Surprise 24

The company reports continued increases in care patterns, health care unit costs and service intensity, driven by provider pricing and additional services bundled per visit. Commercial medical cost trends remain elevated, partly because of the No Surprises Act independent resolution process and more aggressive provider billing practices. UnitedHealth Group says it is using hospital, physician and consumer engagement, as well as enhanced audit, clinical policy and payment-integrity tools, to help limit unnecessary costs.

Key facts

• Optum Health’s fully accountable value-based care businesses have been affected by Medicare funding reductions and continued medical cost trend pressures, which may affect future pricing in markets where the company continues to participate. source
• UnitedHealth Group’s medical costs decreased primarily due to fewer people served across UnitedHealthcare and Optum Health and favorable prior-period reserve development, partly offset by elevated medical cost trend above historical levels, higher No Surprises Act provider reimbursement and increased commercial service and coding intensity. source