UNITEDHEALTH GROUP INCORPORATED (Delaware) - UNH STOCK NEWS

The UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) board has approved a cash dividend of $1.25 per share, scheduled for payment on December 15, 2020. Shareholders on record as of December 7, 2020 will receive this dividend. UnitedHealth Group operates through two main platforms: UnitedHealthcare, offering health care coverage, and Optum, providing technology-enabled health services. This dividend reflects the company's continued commitment to returning value to shareholders.

The 2020 UnitedHealthcare Consumer Sentiment Survey revealed significant changes in Americans' health plan preferences due to COVID-19. About 44% reported the pandemic influenced their choice of health plans, with 16% prioritizing lower out-of-pocket costs. The survey also highlighted a surge in the use of digital resources, with 56% interested in virtual care and 55% utilizing online tools for healthcare comparison. Additionally, 78% felt prepared for open enrollment, emphasizing the importance of vision and dental coverage among respondents.

According to the latest Optum Survey on AI in Health Care, 59% of 500 surveyed health care executives believe their organizations will recover AI investments in under three years, a significant jump from 31% in 2018. The average expected return on AI investments has improved to 3.6 years. A key priority identified is hiring skilled talent in AI, with 95% of executives emphasizing its importance. The top AI applications include monitoring IoT device data (40%), accelerating research (37%), and accurate coding for diagnoses (37%). These insights underscore the growing confidence in AI's transformative potential in health care.

The United Health Foundation has announced a $2 million grant to Family First Health to enhance healthcare access for underserved families in Pennsylvania, specifically at the Hannah Penn K-8 school. This three-year program will improve primary care services and add behavioral health resources, aiming to support students and their families. The initiative also includes the deployment of 'Health Connectors' to assist families in managing chronic conditions and accessing health insurance. This partnership addresses critical healthcare needs, especially during the pandemic.

The United Health Foundation has pledged $2.5 million to the Michigan Primary Care Association to enhance breast cancer screening and genetic testing for high-risk individuals. This three-year partnership aims to establish a pilot program at five Michigan health centers, promoting patient education and improving care transitions through technology and data analysis. The initiative will also provide access to genetic counselors and care managers. In Michigan, over 8,800 new breast cancer cases are expected this year, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and access to screenings.

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) reported third-quarter 2020 revenues of $65.1 billion, up from $60.4 billion last year, driven by growth in Optum and UnitedHealthcare. Net earnings decreased 10% to $3.30 per share. The company updated its full-year earnings outlook to a range of $15.65 to $15.90 per share. Strong public-sector and senior program growth saw 935,000 new members year-to-date. However, operational challenges included a decline in earnings from operations to $4.7 billion and an operating cost ratio increase due to COVID-19 response efforts.

UnitedHealth Group has launched the HERO Program™, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at increasing living organ donations by providing financial support of up to $12,000 to living donors. This includes up to $6,000 for lost wages and $6,000 for travel and lodging costs, applicable even to donors not enrolled in UnitedHealthcare plans. The program was inspired by employees at Optum, part of UnitedHealth Group, and aims to eliminate financial hardships that deter potential donors. Since its June launch, the program has already assisted two living donors.

The United Health Foundation is partnering with the AAFP Foundation, granting $3 million over three years to combat physician burnout and enhance wellness in primary care. This initiative aims to identify burnout causes and develop solutions, crucial as the pandemic exacerbates existing pressures and a nationwide shortage of primary care physicians looms. The program will train 200 family physicians to lead organizational changes that improve clinician well-being. Applications for the training program, set to start in January 2021, are currently being accepted.

UnitedHealthcare has unveiled its 2021 Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans aimed at providing affordable coverage and enhanced member services. The plan will expand access to nearly 3.2 million additional people across almost 300 counties. Key offerings include $0 premiums for nearly 2.5 million members, $0 telehealth copays, and a comprehensive range of additional health benefits. Unique programs like HouseCalls and Navigate4Me will enhance at-home care and support for members with complex health needs.