MINNETONKA, MN (Nov. 12, 2008) – Stephen J. Hemsley, president and CEO, UnitedHealth Group, released the following statement commenting on the health reform "Call to Action" issued today by Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-MT):

"UnitedHealth Group shares Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus' view that reforming our health system is a critical part of our nation's ability to once again have a strong and vibrant economy.

We applaud Chairman Baucus for his thoughtful "Call to Action" that recognizes the need to expand coverage and reduce costs but also reform the delivery system to improve quality. We agree with Chairman Baucus' commitment to enhancing the role of primary care as well as moving away from our current system's reliance on paying for the quantity of services rendered rather than the quality of care delivered.

The businesses of UnitedHealth Group touch virtually every part of the health care enterprise and, as a result, we believe our experience positions us well to not only advance workable solutions during the reform debate but also to turn concepts into reality as we pursue universal coverage. We look forward to working with Chairman Baucus, the Congress, and the Obama Administration to ensure that every American has access to quality and affordable health care."

About UnitedHealth Group
UnitedHealth Group is a diversified health and well-being company dedicated to making health care work better. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., UnitedHealth Group offers a broad spectrum of products and services through six operating businesses: UnitedHealthcare, Ovations, AmeriChoice, OptumHealth, Ingenix, and Prescription Solutions. Through its family of businesses, UnitedHealth Group serves more than 70 million individuals nationwide.