Healthcare Panel Discusses Problems in Insurance Industry at Film Screening
TL/DR –
The film “Midas,” directed by Hartford filmmaker TJ Noel-Sullivan, criticizes the health insurance industry for often denying coverage with potentially fatal consequences, a topic which was further explored in a panel discussion. Wendell Potter, a former Cigna executive turned advocate for healthcare reform, used this platform to highlight the shift of several major insurers towards pharmacy profits, and said these companies often deny coverage for necessary care. Dr. Saud Anwar, a state senator and practicing pulmonologist, denounced the increasing use of Medicare Advantage, a privately-run version of traditional Medicare, due to its negative impacts on patients.
Health Insurance Industry Highlighted in Local Film and Panel Discussion
‘Midas’, a film by Hartford filmmaker TJ Noel-Sullivan focusing on the health insurance industry’s shortfalls, was showcased with a panel discussion at the Legislative Office Building. The film follows a college dropout who plots to rob a health insurer that denied his mom’s coverage and sparked a debate on Connecticut’s healthcare system.
Former Cigna VP Turns Healthcare-Reform Advocate
Wendell Potter, a former VP of Communications at Cigna, has turned into a healthcare-reform advocate, criticizing the insurance industry. Potter’s transition came after witnessing a free clinic’s hardships in rural Virginia in 2007 and the tragic case of Nataline Sarkisyan, whose initial denial of coverage for a liver transplant by Cigna led to her death. Potter revealed that insurance companies often deny necessary medical coverage to boost their shareholder value.
Shift Towards Pharmacy Profits
Potter highlighted the insurance industry’s shift towards pharmacy profits. He stated that insurers like Cigna, Aetna, CVS Health, and United Health Group, controlling over 80% of the nation’s pharmacies, have bought pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) companies to boost revenues. This move has led to denied coverage for medically necessary care.
Medicare Advantage’s Negative Impacts
Dr. Saud Anwar, a practicing pulmonologist and South Windsor state senator, criticized the healthcare industry’s escalating use of Medicare Advantage. He identified its negative effects, such as lack of intensive home care and worse functional outcomes, citing the Journal of American Medical Association’s findings.
Insurance Companies’ Impact on Healthcare Providers
Kathleen Holt, Connecticut’s health care advocate, expressed her concerns about the insurance companies’ role in shaping the healthcare industry. Drawing from her experience, she noted that insurers are interested in patient volume and that smaller health organizations struggle to survive on insurance payouts, causing significant consolidation in the healthcare industry.
Insurance Payouts and Denied Claims
According to Holt, her office has helped over 4,000 residents in 2025, saving them more than $8 million. She revealed that when her office intervenes, insurers pay out claims 80% of the time. However, a small percentage of people who are denied services appeal the claim, validating the denial practices of insurance companies.
CT Association of Health Plans Statement
The CT Association of Health Plans emphasized the essential role health plans play in maintaining access, quality, and affordability in Connecticut’s healthcare system. They justified the use of utilization review and prior authorization tools to ensure care safety, effectiveness, and clinical evidence adherence. The statement also mentioned ongoing efforts to improve these processes to ensure every healthcare dollar delivers value and sustainable coverage.
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