Core Viewpoint - UnitedHealth will cease offering Medicare Advantage plans in 109 U.S. counties in 2026, affecting 180,000 members due to rising costs and reimbursement pressures in the insurance program [1][2]. Group 1: Financial Impact - The combination of funding cuts from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, rising healthcare costs, and increased utilization has created significant challenges for the company [2]. - UnitedHealth suspended its full-year guidance after missing earnings for the first time since 2008, attributing the miss to unexpected costs in its Medicare Advantage business [3]. - Regulatory changes are expected to decrease payments for certain conditions, presenting a $4 billion risk to insurance profits in 2026 [4]. Group 2: Membership and Plan Changes - The company will close over 100 plans, impacting approximately 600,000 members, primarily in preferred provider organizations [5]. - Most plan closures will occur in rural areas, where the company aims to streamline operations for sustainable care delivery [6]. Group 3: Future Projections - Government funding for Medicare Advantage plans is projected to drop by about 20% in 2026 compared to 2023 [4].