Published by The Inkell Firm – Fighting for Nursing Home Abuse Victims Across Delaware

Nursing homes are supposed to provide safe, compassionate, and medically appropriate care for our most vulnerable loved ones. But a recent Guardian investigation into UnitedHealth Group—the largest health insurer in the U.S.—has revealed troubling practices that may have put the lives of nursing home residents across the country at serious risk, including right here in Delaware. Read the full article here: CLICK HERE

In this article, we review the findings, break down how they could affect Delaware families, and explain what to do if you suspect your loved one has been a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect.

Key Takeaways from the Investigation

  • UnitedHealth secretly paid bonuses to nursing homes that reduced hospital transfers.
  • These incentives allegedly encouraged facilities to delay or deny emergency medical care.
  • Whistleblowers and former employees say patients were harmed—some with permanent injuries.
  • Facilities could lose funding or face clawbacks if hospitalization rates were too high.
  • There are allegations of pressuring patients to accept “Do Not Resuscitate” orders—even against their wishes.

The company is now under multiple investigations, including a federal civil fraud probe.

How This Could Be Harming Delaware Nursing Home Residents

Delaware families trust long-term care facilities to provide professional medical support. But when powerful insurers like UnitedHealth create incentives to avoid hospital transfers—no matter the medical need—it puts residents in danger.

At The Inkell Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how profit-driven policies can lead to:

  • Delayed stroke care, causing irreversible brain damage.
  • Neglected falls and pressure wounds, which worsen without immediate hospital intervention.
  • Unlawful changes to patient care plans, including improper DNR orders.
  • Unauthorized enrollment in Medicare Advantage plans, often without family consent.

These aren’t abstract national problems. With UnitedHealth involved in nursing homes across the country, it’s likely that facilities in Delaware have participated in similar bonus programs, risking your family member’s health and dignity.

What to Watch For: Signs of Abuse or Neglect

If your loved one lives in a Delaware nursing home, here are red flags that may point to a facility cutting corners on care:

  • Unexplained delays in hospital visits
  • Sudden changes in medical status without notice
  • Missing or falsified records
  • Staff unwilling to discuss emergency decisions
  • Your loved one being switched to a different insurance plan without consent

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to ask questions—and take action.

Your Rights as a Delaware Family

Delaware law protects nursing home residents from abuse and neglect. You and your family have the right to:

  • Receive prompt emergency care without insurer interference.
  • Be fully informed about all changes to care plans and insurance coverage.
  • Access complete medical records for your loved one.
  • Hold facilities accountable for negligence or abuse.

When these rights are violated, legal action may be necessary to ensure accountability and compensation for harm.

The Inkell Firm Is Here to Help

As a Delaware-based personal injury and nursing home abuse law firm, The Inkell Firm is committed to holding negligent facilities and profit-focused corporations like UnitedHealth accountable.

We work closely with:

  • Families of injured or neglected residents
  • Whistleblowers and former nursing home staff
  • Medical experts who understand appropriate standards of care

If your loved one has suffered a stroke, fall, infection, or suspicious change in condition at a Delaware nursing home, we’re ready to investigate.

CLICK HERE To Get a Free Case Review Today

Whether your crash happened in Felton or Frankford, whether you’re recovering at home or in a Christiana Care hospital bed—Attorney Josh Inkell is here to help.

Call The Inkell Firm or schedule a free consultation online today. We’ll walk you through the insurance maze and fight to get you every dollar you deserve.

CLICK HERE To Get a Free Case Review Today Or Call (302) 297-7775!