UnitedHealth Cuts Some Medicare Advantage Plan Commissions (2)

UnitedHealth Group Inc. is cutting commissions for brokers on some Medicare Advantage plans, according to documents reviewed by Bloomberg News, a move that appears designed to discourage agents from selling those plans.

The decision comes as UnitedHealth grapples with high costs in Medicare Advantage that derailed its financial outlook and sent its share price tumbling. By steering brokers away from selling some of these plans, the insurance giant could ultimately lower its costs.

UnitedHealth is removing commissions for a “small percentage” of Medicare Advantage plans for new enrollments starting July 1, the company said in a statement. Patients will still ...