Know Your Scumbag, Part 1

This is William W. McGuire. He was the head of United Healthcare Group, one of the largest health insurers in the U.S., from 1991 to 2006. He had to step down due to his involvement in a stock options scandal.

His punishment?

A $1.1 billion dollar compensation package, the then-largest golden parachute in the history of corporate America.

United Healthcare is one of the major players in the astro-turfing of health care debate. But it's self-protection, really. If they can't gouge the consumer then they can't afford to pay off their criminal employees.

So the next time your medical claim is denied due to a pre-existing condition, like acne, think of Mr. McGuire as you write your premium check.

=Lefty=