Hudson Valley lawmakers target healthcare monopolies, Optum

MID-HUDSON – Two Hudson Valley state lawmakers want to break up healthcare monopolies, accusing large corporations of driving up medical costs, eliminating competition and leaving patients with fewer choices. Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson (D-Newburgh) and state Sen. Michelle Hinchey (D-Saugerties) announced legislation targeting the growing influence of insurance companies and healthcare corporations, including UnitedHealth Group and its subsidiary, Optum, which has acquired numerous medical practices throughout the Hudson Valley. “Healthcare is a necessity. All the market power for our healthcare shouldn’t be in the hands of a few corporations,” Jacobson said. “Patients now have fewer choices and have to wait longer for care. With less competition, prices increase and place a heavier financial burden on patients.” Hinchey was particularly critical of Optum, accusing the company of using its financial power to squeeze out independent medical practices. “We know what these monopolies do