United Healthcare Mail Order Drugs May Discriminate Against HIV / AIDS Patients

United Healthcare plan members who require specialty HIV / AIDS medication may have legal recourse in light of changes in the company’s prescription drug coverage. United Healthcare now requires specialist medicines, including those commonly used in the treatment of HIV / AIDS, be ordered by mail through their own pharmacy, meaning that the continued use of local, retail pharmacists could cost patients thousands of dollars.

United Healthcare Class Action Lawsuit

It has been alleged that United Healthcare’s policy of requiring HIV medication be delivered through their own mail order system is discriminatory, as it jeopardizes the health and privacy of patients. Those who suffer from HIV / AIDS often require complex treatments that may need to be adjusted. A pharmacist familiar with a patient’s lifestyle and history is able to make these adjustments and recommendations. However, patients are now faced with a choice between United’s in-house delivery system and spending thousands of dollars of their own money to fulfill prescriptions in a local pharmacy.

Concerns have also been raised over risks to patients’ privacy, as a mail delivery system requires patients’ information be connected with medications that are often delivered using specialist refrigeration equipment, and are likely to draw the attention of neighbors who may not know about individuals’ current health or HIV status.

A similar class action lawsuit against Anthem Blue Cross concluded with a settlement which saw an ‘opt out’ of all mandatory mail-order drug programs offered to all those covered by the policy. United Healthcare insurance policy holders who have been affected by discriminatory practices - that could potentially limit their access to the best medical care – may be entitled to compensation.

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