Optum is speaking with multiple large New York health systems to sell some specialties in the state, the company confirmed to Becker’s June 24.
The UnitedHealth Group subsidiary is considering the sale of certain specialties, including orthopedics, general surgery and urology. The specialties are affiliated with Optum Medical Care and Crystal Run Healthcare, which Optum purchased in 2023.
“We are in discussions with several large health systems across New York regarding the transition of certain specialty services with the goal to keep that care local,” Jon Nasser, MD, CEO of Optum New York and New Jersey, said in a statement shared with Becker’s.
Optum has already signed or is negotiating letters of intent with the interested health systems. The company aims to reach agreements and close sales by the end of 2026.
The spokesperson said Optum will continue focusing on primary care, pediatrics and medical specialties in ambulatory environments throughout the state.
During an October earnings call, Optum CEO Patrick Conway said the company’s care services division has “strayed from the initial intent,” resulting in an oversized provider network. The company expected to work with fewer providers in 2026.
In December, New York state lawmakers pushed the health department to investigate Optum’s closures and network reductions.
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