UnitedHealthcare, the largest insurance provider in the United States, is facing significant pressure following a series of troubling developments. The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a criminal investigation into the company's Medicare practices, specifically targeting the billing practices of its Medicare Advantage unit. This investigation comes on the heels of UnitedHealthcare's unexpected decision to withdraw its financial outlook and the sudden departure of CEO Andrew Witty, as Reuters reported.

These issues have sparked a sharp decline in UnitedHealth's stock value, with shares plummeting 14% in a single day and suffering a 46% drop year-to-date. This stark decrease has brought the company's stock to a nearly five-year low, adding fuel to investor concerns about the company's trajectory amid these challenges.

Adding to the company's troubles is its high rate of claim denials, where one in three claims is dismissed—twice the industry average. The Department of Justice is also scrutinizing UnitedHealth's proposed $3.3 billion purchase of Amedisys Inc., raising antitrust concerns. Meanwhile, the tragic shooting death of CEO Brian Thompson has resulted in further political and public scrutiny, especially following revelations that the ammunition used was labeled with references tied to the insurer's controversial practices.