The American Prospect is devoted to promoting informed discussion on public policy from a progressive perspective. In print and online, the Prospect brings a narrative, journalistic approach to complex issues, addressing the policy alternatives and the politics necessary to create good legislation. We help to dispel myths, challenge conventional wisdom, and expand the dialogue.
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2026-08-11
David Dayen Discusses the Power of Big Insurance in Healthcarewith David Dayen
In the latest episode of the Health Policy Podcast, David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, discusses the influence of major health insurance companies in the U.S. healthcare system. He highlights how companies like UnitedHealthcare and CVS/Aetna operate as health conglomerates, leveraging their power to maximize profits through practices such as upcoding in Medicare Advantage. Dayen also addresses the political lobbying efforts of the insurance industry and recent state-level reforms aimed at reducing costs and increasing access to healthcare.
Notable quotes
“We only have a handful of big health insurance companies in America.”
“Medicare Advantage effectively overbills the federal government by the tune of $76 billion per year.”
“The only people that lose are the American people and the American taxpayer.”
“The insurance industry has effectively used its own power to reduce scrutiny of its practices.”
“Those members have received hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars from the industry over the course of their careers.”
“People are very angry about the healthcare system in general, and I think insurance companies in particular.”