UnitedHealth Group on Thursday announced it is investing an initial $10 million to fight the COVID-19 pandemic internationally and support impacted communities in countries where its UnitedHealthcare and Optum businesses operate, including in Brazil, Chile, Colombia, India, Ireland, Peru, Philippines and Portugal.
Consistent with UnitedHealth Group’s efforts in the United States, the funding will support those most directly impacted by the public health emergency, including health care workers, seniors and people experiencing food insecurity or homelessness, while also expanding access to care in underserved communities.
“COVID-19 is a global health emergency and UnitedHealth Group is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of people around the world,” said Dave Wichmann, chief executive officer of UnitedHealth Group. “This additional investment of $10 million will support that effort and builds on our commitment to deploy our in-country resources, deep clinical expertise, and our compassionate team to support those in need at this unprecedented time.”
Details of the International Response
UnitedHealth Group has developed partnerships with leading non-governmental organizations, universities and public health systems in each country. The funding will provide vital support for each country’s unique and most pressing needs, such as:
- Addressing food insecurity and funding health care and hygiene support for vulnerable individuals and families.
- Helping expand local health care system capacity to treat COVID-19 patients through equipment, supplies and hospital beds.
- Purchasing protective equipment and safety kits for health care workers and other front-line responders.
“We are working across the international communities to make resources available quickly and efficiently in an effort to fight COVID-19 and provide support for those most impacted by this global health crisis,” Wichmann said.
The $10 million additional international investment builds on UnitedHealth Group’s $50 million initial commitment to fight COVID-19 and support impacted populations, including health care workers, seniors and hard-hit communities.
Details of the country-specific partnerships will be announced in the coming weeks.
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