Healthcare Associations React to UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s Murder

By Todd McElwee

In the wake of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder in New York City earlier this month, USAE conducted an e-mail, website, Google and social media search for reactions to the crime from healthcare industry associations.

Numerous offerings of condolences were found, though the overwhelmingly majority of organizations USAE contacted directly declined to comment or did not respond to messages. Out of the 10 associations, which spanned a wide swath of the healthcare sector, USAE contacted directly only AHIP, an association for health insurers, responded with a comment: two LinkedIn posts from President & CEO Michael Tuffin.

“The people in our industry are mission-driven professionals working to make coverage and care as a ordable as possible and to help people navigate the complex medical system,” one post said. “They are conscientious, dedicated people from all walks of life who serve their communities. They are our family, friends and neighbors. We condemn any suggestion that threats against our colleagues—or anyone else in our country—are ever acceptable.”

One association mentioned their CEO reached out privately to the family, but did not want to be cited. A few no comments were received, but most organizations did not respond. USAE did not find a single comment on any of the roughly 20 websites visited. A Google search turned up a handful of responses, including a HEALTHCAREDIVE article cataloguing condolences from corporate, government and nonprofits outfits.

JC Scott, President & CEO, Pharmaceutical Care Management, said in the piece: “On behalf of PCMA, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. During this di cult time, our thoughts, prayers, and support are with our colleagues at PCMA member OptumRx, the entire UnitedHealth team, and the Thompson family.”

Additional social media posts found via Google include those from the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) and Catholic Health Association (CHA)— which linked to its website.

“CHA and the Catholic health care community were shocked and grieved to learn of the tragic death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson,” said CHA President & CEO Sr. Mary Haddad, RSM. “We offer our prayers for healing and consolation for the loved ones of Mr. Thompson. We also extend our sympathy and condolences to the UnitedHealthcare community during this deeply troubling time. As a Catholic health ministry, we a rm the sacredness of life and call on everyone to join us in condemning this and other senseless acts of violence.”

The Colorado Association of Health Plans (CAHP) also shared a statement with its thoughts and well wishes.

Outside of healthcare, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said: “The horrific murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson comes as a shock to all Americans. As we process this senseless violence and learn more about the circumstances of this act, we mourn the loss of Brian and extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. Our prayers are also with Brian’s employees. We stand ready to help them in any way as they deal with the aftermath of this tragedy.”