The UnitedHealth Group leader whose murder in December unleashed a torrent of public frustration and dissatisfaction with the U.S. health care system was pushing for some of the very improvements that critics have been seeking.

In his first public comments since one of his executives was shot to death, UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said the healthcare system “needs to function better.”

UnitedHealth reported fourth-quarter results on Thursday that reflected persistent challenges for the health insurance sector.

UnitedHealth Group reported mixed financial results for Q4, with a rise in medical care ratio and CEO's tribute to the late Brian Thompson. CEO defended high healthcare costs and announced return of rebates to customers.

In its first results since its insurance unit CEO was fatally shot in New York City, UnitedHealth Group reported Thursday weaker-than-expected fourth-quarter revenue, prompting its shares to fall in early morning trading despite quarterly profit beating projections.

Insurance is shaping up to be one of the big themes of 2025. The California wildfires have put a spotlight on the property side of the business, while the recent murder of Brian Thompson, one of the top executives at UnitedHealth (NYSE:UNH),