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Unitedhealth Group Inc – ‘10-K’ for 12/31/10 – ‘XML’

On:  Thursday, 2/10/11, at 4:04pm ET   ·   For:  12/31/10   ·   Accession #:  1193125-11-30615   ·   File #:  1-10864

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  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 2/10/11  Unitedhealth Group Inc            10-K       12/31/10  114:19M                                    Donnelley … Solutions/FA

Annual Report   —   Form 10-K   —   Sect. 13 / 15(d) – SEA’34
Filing Table of Contents

Document/Exhibit                   Description                      Pages   Size 

 1: 10-K        Annual Report                                       HTML   1.46M 
 2: EX-10.12    Form of Agreement for Deferred Stock Unit Award     HTML     49K 
 3: EX-10.13    Form of Agreement for Deferred Stock Unit Award     HTML     47K 
 4: EX-10.33    Amendment to Employment Agreement                   HTML     83K 
 6: EX-21.1     Subsidiaries of the Company                         HTML    164K 
 7: EX-23.1     Consent of Independent Registered Public            HTML     35K 
                Accounting Firm                                                  
 8: EX-24.1     Power of Attorney                                   HTML     42K 
 5: EX-12.1     Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges   HTML     49K 
 9: EX-31.1     Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the        HTML     49K 
                Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002                                       
10: EX-32.1     Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the        HTML     38K 
                Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002                                       
87: XML         IDEA XML File -- Definitions and References          XML    314K 
103: XML         IDEA XML File -- Filing Summary                      XML    384K  
98: XML.R1      Document and Entity Information                      XML    226K 
99: XML.R2      Consolidated Balance Sheets                          XML    396K 
53: XML.R3      Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical)          XML    175K 
62: XML.R4      Consolidated Statements of Operations                XML    342K 
85: XML.R5      Consolidated Statements of Changes in                XML    754K 
                Shareholders' Equity                                             
80: XML.R6      Consolidated Statements of Changes in                XML     98K 
                Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical)                             
109: XML.R7      Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows                XML    564K  
28: XML.R8      Description of Business                              XML     60K 
79: XML.R9      Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML    114K 
                Significant Accounting Policies                                  
24: XML.R10     Investments                                          XML    262K 
23: XML.R11     Fair Value                                           XML    195K 
52: XML.R12     Property, Equipment and Capitalized Software         XML     75K 
92: XML.R13     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets                 XML    127K 
54: XML.R14     Medical Costs and Medical Costs Payable              XML     82K 
58: XML.R15     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt                  XML    159K 
74: XML.R16     Income Taxes                                         XML    140K 
114: XML.R17     Shareholders' Equity                                 XML     73K  
45: XML.R18     Share-Based Compensation                             XML    110K 
17: XML.R19     Aarp                                                 XML    136K 
61: XML.R20     Commitments and Contingencies                        XML     86K 
90: XML.R21     Segment Financial Information                        XML    218K 
35: XML.R22     Quarterly Financial Data                             XML     89K 
86: XML.R23     Schedule I                                           XML    172K 
59: XML.R24     Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML    243K 
                Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)                         
108: XML.R25     Fair Value (Policy)                                  XML     65K  
94: XML.R26     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Policy)         XML     59K 
65: XML.R27     Aarp (Policy)                                        XML     63K 
75: XML.R28     Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML     76K 
                Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)                         
22: XML.R29     Investments (Tables)                                 XML    297K 
26: XML.R30     Fair Value (Tables)                                  XML    194K 
38: XML.R31     Property, Equipment and Capitalized Software         XML     73K 
                (Tables)                                                         
48: XML.R32     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)        XML    144K 
73: XML.R33     Medical Costs and Medical Costs Payable (Tables)     XML     79K 
93: XML.R34     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Tables)         XML    171K 
20: XML.R35     Income Taxes (Tables)                                XML    155K 
29: XML.R36     Shareholders' Equity (Tables)                        XML     57K 
100: XML.R37     Share-Based Compensation (Tables)                    XML    111K  
107: XML.R38     Aarp (Tables)                                        XML    137K  
66: XML.R39     Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)               XML     64K 
111: XML.R40     Segment Financial Information (Tables)               XML    213K  
30: XML.R41     Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)                    XML     87K 
113: XML.R42     Schedule I (Tables)                                  XML    170K  
40: XML.R43     Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML    230K 
                Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative)                      
                (Details)                                                        
18: XML.R44     Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML    157K 
                Significant Accounting Policies (Consolidated                    
                Balance Sheet) (Details)                                         
39: XML.R45     Basis of Presentation, Use of Estimates and          XML    146K 
                Significant Accounting Policies (Useful Lives for                
                Property, Equipment and Capitalized Software)                    
                (Details)                                                        
89: XML.R46     Investments (Narrative) (Details)                    XML    185K 
106: XML.R47     Investments (Short-term and Long-term Investments)   XML    881K  
                (Details)                                                        
56: XML.R48     Investments (Fair Value of the Company's             XML    840K 
                Mortgage-backed Securities by Credit Rating and                  
                Non-U.S. Agency Mortgage-backed Securities by                    
                Origination) (Details)                                           
42: XML.R49     Investments (Amortized Cost and Fair Value of        XML    176K 
                Available-for-sale Debt Securities by Contractual                
                Maturity) (Details)                                              
71: XML.R50     Investments (Amortized Cost and Fair Value of        XML    124K 
                Held-to-maturity Debt Securities by Contractual                  
                Maturity) (Details)                                              
21: XML.R51     Investments (Fair Value of Available-for-sale        XML    620K 
                Investments with Gross Unrealized Losses by                      
                Investment Type and Length of Time that Individual               
                Securities Have Been in a Continuous Unrealized                  
                Loss Position) (Details)                                         
77: XML.R52     Investments (Mortgage Backed Securities in an        XML    306K 
                Unrealized Loss Position by Credit Rating)                       
                (Details)                                                        
43: XML.R53     Investments (Net Realized Gains (Losses), Before     XML    143K 
                Taxes) (Details)                                                 
27: XML.R54     Fair Value (Narrative) (Details)                     XML     91K 
105: XML.R55     Fair Value (Financial Assets and Liabilities,        XML   1.45M  
                Excluding AARP, Measured at Fair Value on a                      
                Recurring Basis) (Details)                                       
102: XML.R56     Fair Value (Reconciliation of Assets Measured at     XML    339K  
                Fair Value on a Recurring Basis Using Level 3                    
                Inputs) (Details)                                                
51: XML.R57     Fair Value (Summary of Fair Value and Carrying       XML    233K 
                Value for Certain Financial Instruments for Which                
                it is Practicable to Estimate Fair Value)                        
                (Details)                                                        
34: XML.R58     Property, Equipment and Capitalized Software         XML     97K 
                (Narrative) (Details)                                            
96: XML.R59     Property, Equipment and Capitalized Software         XML    155K 
                (Summary of Property, Equipment and Capitalized                  
                Software) (Details)                                              
25: XML.R60     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative)     XML     98K 
                (Details)                                                        
81: XML.R61     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Changes in     XML    385K 
                Carrying Amount of Goodwill by Reporting Segment)                
                (Details)                                                        
78: XML.R62     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Gross          XML    239K 
                Carrying Value, Accumulated Amortization and Net                 
                Carrying Value of Other Intangible Assets)                       
                (Details)                                                        
101: XML.R63     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Finite-Lived   XML    207K  
                Intangible Assets Acquired in Business                           
                Combinations) (Details)                                          
97: XML.R64     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Amortization   XML     87K 
                Expense Relating to Intangible Assets) (Details)                 
110: XML.R65     Medical Costs and Medical Costs Payable              XML     58K  
                (Narrative) (Details)                                            
32: XML.R66     Medical Costs and Medical Costs Payable (The         XML    179K 
                Components of the Change in Medical Costs Payable)               
                (Details)                                                        
50: XML.R67     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Narrative)      XML    820K 
                (Details)                                                        
69: XML.R68     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Commercial      XML   1.27M 
                Paper and Long-Term Debt) (Details)                              
60: XML.R69     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Maturities of   XML    110K 
                long-term debt) (Details)                                        
70: XML.R70     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Summary of      XML     97K 
                Location and Fair Value of Fair Value Hedges)                    
                (Details)                                                        
112: XML.R71     Commercial Paper and Long-Term Debt (Effect of       XML     73K  
                Changes in Fair Value of Fair Value Hedges)                      
                (Details)                                                        
33: XML.R72     Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details)                   XML    168K 
41: XML.R73     Income Taxes (Components of the provision for        XML    134K 
                income taxes) (Details)                                          
37: XML.R74     Income Taxes (Reconciliation of the tax provision    XML    237K 
                at the U.S. Federal Statutory Rate) (Details)                    
67: XML.R75     Income Taxes (Components of deferred income tax      XML    236K 
                assets and liabilities) (Details)                                
76: XML.R76     Income Taxes (Reconciliation of unrecognized tax     XML    128K 
                benefits) (Details)                                              
64: XML.R77     Shareholders' Equity (Narrative) (Details)           XML    282K 
57: XML.R78     Shareholders' Equity (Schedule of Company's          XML     86K 
                dividend payments) (Details)                                     
31: XML.R79     Share-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details)       XML    513K 
19: XML.R80     Share-Based Compensation (Stock Option and SAR       XML    196K 
                Activity) (Details)                                              
68: XML.R81     Share-Based Compensation (Share-Based Compensation   XML    213K 
                Principal Fair Value Assumptions) (Details)                      
49: XML.R82     Share-Based Compensation (Restricted Share           XML    126K 
                Activity) (Details)                                              
63: XML.R83     Aarp (Narrative) (Details)                           XML    130K 
88: XML.R84     Aarp (AARP Program-related Assets and Liabilities)   XML    271K 
                (Details)                                                        
84: XML.R85     Aarp (AARP Program Financial Assets and              XML   1.80M 
                Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring                
                Basis) (Details)                                                 
46: XML.R86     Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative)            XML    230K 
91: XML.R87     Commitments and Contingencies (Future Minimum        XML     95K 
                Annual Lease Payments, Net of Sublease Income,                   
                Under all Noncancelable Operating Leases)                        
                (Details)                                                        
82: XML.R88     Segment Financial Information (Narrative)            XML     85K 
                (Details)                                                        
36: XML.R89     Segment Financial Information (Details)              XML   2.99M 
55: XML.R90     Quarterly Financial Data (Quarterly Financial        XML    323K 
                Information) (Details)                                           
83: XML.R91     Schedule I (Condensed Balance Sheets) (Details)      XML    908K 
44: XML.R92     Schedule I (Condensed Statements of Operations)      XML    695K 
                (Details)                                                        
95: XML.R93     Schedule I (Condensed Statements of Cash Flows)      XML    560K 
                (Details)                                                        
47: XML.R94     Schedule I (Narrative) (Details)                     XML    123K 
104: EXCEL       IDEA Workbook of Financial Reports (.xls)            XLS   2.46M  
11: EX-101.INS  XBRL Instance -- unh-20101231                        XML   3.87M 
13: EX-101.CAL  XBRL Calculations -- unh-20101231_cal                XML    297K 
14: EX-101.DEF  XBRL Definitions -- unh-20101231_def                 XML    758K 
15: EX-101.LAB  XBRL Labels -- unh-20101231_lab                      XML   1.52M 
16: EX-101.PRE  XBRL Presentations -- unh-20101231_pre               XML   1.30M 
12: EX-101.SCH  XBRL Schema -- unh-20101231                          XSD    282K 
72: ZIP         XBRL Zipped Folder -- 0001193125-11-030615-xbrl      Zip    248K

‘XML’   —   IDEA XML File — Definitions and References

This Document is an XBRL XML File.

                                                                                                                                                                                
<DefinitionAndReference>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesRealizedGainLossOtherThanTemporaryImpairmentsAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AmortizedCostGrossUnrealizedGainsAndLossesAndFairValueOfInvestmentsTableTextBlock">
<definition> Table of amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, and fair value of investments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AssetsUnderManagementPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Assets Under Management Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FairValueMeasurementInputReconciliationOnRecurringBasisAssetsAndLiabilitiesLevel1And2TransfersNet">
<definition> Fair Value Measurement Input Reconciliation, On Recurring Basis, Assets and Liabilities, Level 1 and 2 Transfers Net </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicarePartDInitialCoverageLimit">
<definition> Medicare Part D initial coverage limit. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MarketableSecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromSettlementsWithTaxingAuthorities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRateUpperLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Upper Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherPolicyholderFunds">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AccumulatedDepreciationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> Accumulated Depreciation Property Plant And Equipment </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicalCostsAndMedicalCostsPayablePolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Medical Costs And Medical Costs Payable Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Assets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfCondensedConsolidatingStatementOfCashFlowsTableTextBlock">
<definition> Disclosure of the condensed statement of cash flows normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfReconciliationOfTaxProvisionAtUsFederalStatutoryRateTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Tax Provision At US Federal Statutory Rate </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationNondeductibleExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInDeferredRevenue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentFaceAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxExemptIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentType">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ConsolidatedBalanceSheetsAmountsOfMedicarePartDProgramTextBlock">
<definition> Consolidated Balance Sheets amounts of Medicare Part D program. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsThatWouldImpactEffectiveTaxRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestAccrued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CompensationRelatedCostsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAmortizationExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityAmountOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionTwelveMonthsOrLongerFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearOne">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MortgageBackedSecuritiesInUnrealizedLossPositionByCreditRatingDistributionTextBlock">
<definition> Mortgage-Backed Securities in an Unrealized Loss Position by Credit Rating Distribution [Text Block] </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StatutoryAccountingPracticesStatutoryCapitalAndSurplusBalance">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_RestrictedShareActivityDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Restricted Share Activity Disclosure. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRateLowerLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Lower Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTaxSettlementsStateAndLocal">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationAdjustmentForSaleOfSecuritiesIncludedInNetIncomeNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxSettlementsStateAndLocal">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_TotalNumberOfSecurityPositions">
<definition> Total number of security positions </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FairValuesOfLevel3InvestmentsInVentureCapitalPortfolios">
<definition> Fair values of Level 3 investments in venture capital portfolios </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfCompanyDividendPaidTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of Company Dividend paid </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfPropertyEquipmentAndCapitalizedSoftwareTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule Of Property Equipment And Capitalized Software </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CashDividendsPaidToParentCompanyByConsolidatedSubsidiariesExtraordinaryDividends">
<definition> Cash dividends paid to parent Company by consolidated subsidiaries, extraordinary dividends. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsRiskFreeInterestRateUpperLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate, Upper Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LitigationSettlementExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AdjustmentsNoncashItemsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxExemptIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendYieldLowerLimit">
<definition> Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Assumptions Expected Dividend Yield Lower Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueNewIssues">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueHedgeAssetsAtFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicarePartDPharmacyBenefitsContractPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Medicare Part D Pharmacy Benefits Contract Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StatutoryAccountingPracticesStatutoryAmountAvailableForDividendPayments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_LongTermDebtClassifiedAsCurrentDueToPutFeature">
<definition> Senior unsecured notes classified with the current maturities of long-term debt due to the existence of a put feature. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossLessThanTwelveMonths">
<definition> Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Losses, Less than Twelve Months. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsPolicyholderLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Goodwill">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasis">
<definition> Fair Value, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_OtherPolicyLiabilitiesTextBlock">
<definition> Other Policy Liabilities </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherAdjustments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesMinorityInterestAndIncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_InterestRateSwapContractPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Interest rate swap contract policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsNetCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NatureOfOperations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentIssuanceDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherDeposits">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionLessThanTwelveMonthsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantChangeInUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIsReasonablyPossibleEstimatedRangeOfChange">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTermLowerLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term, Lower Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_InterestRateFairValueHedgeOnIncomeStatementDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Interest rate fair value hedge on income statement disclosure </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_AmendmentFlag">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PremiumsEarnedNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedDividendYieldUpperLimit">
<definition> Share-Based Compensation Arrangement By Share-Based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Yield, Upper Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CatastrophicReinsuranceSubsidyCoverage">
<definition> Catastrophic reinsurance subsidy coverage. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesEquitySecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromHedgeFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CashCashEquivalentsAndMarketableSecurities">
<definition> Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromMaturitiesPrepaymentsAndCallsOfAvailableForSaleSecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Liabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_LiabilityForClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseRelatedToAcquisitions">
<definition> The amount needed to reflect the estimated ultimate cost of settling claims relating to insured events that have occurred on or before the balance sheet date at the date of acquisition, whether or not reported to the insurer at that date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIntersegmentRevenue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearThree">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PenaltiesIssuedMaximum">
<definition> Penalties Issued, Maximum </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNetIncludingCapitalizedComputerSoftwareNet">
<definition> Property plant and equipment net including capitalized computer software, net </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsLiabilitiesNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfQuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule Of Quarterly Financial Information </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentMaturityDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationOptionsActivityTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Options Activity. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesUnrecognizedHoldingLosses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingAggregateIntrinsicValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeAssetsAtFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_VarianceOfRiskShare">
<definition> Variance Of Risk Share </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentsAndCash">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_LossContingencyProposedSettlementConsideration">
<definition> The carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of the proposed settlement loss contingency reserve. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwards">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisCashAndCashEquivalents">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromCurrentPeriodTaxPositions">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MarketableSecuritiesUnrealizedGains">
<definition> This item represents the unrealized gain on debt and equity securities, including held-to-maturity, trading, and available for sale. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentsInDebtAndMarketableEquitySecuritiesAndCertainTradingAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLossCarryforwardsExpirationDates">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseReservesAndAccrualsReturnsAndAllowances">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasis">
<definition> Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_RemainingLevelThreePreferredStockAndOtherItemsEquitySecuritiesHoldings">
<definition> Remaining Level 3 preferred stock and other items equity securities holdings. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesOfLesseeDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityFilerCategory">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PlaintiffsCounselFeesAndExpensesStateCourt">
<definition> Plaintiffs counsel fees and expenses, state court </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesNetCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DividendsCash">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ChangeInMedicalCostsPayableDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Change in Medical Costs Payable Disclosure [Text Block] </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Land">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredExpenseCapitalizedSoftware">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AarpRelatedFairValueOfAssetsAndLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> AARP Related Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities Disclosure </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssetsPolicy">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityCurrentBorrowingCapacity">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ReinsuranceRecoverablesNoncurrent">
<definition> The non-current portion of the known and estimated amount recoverable as of the balance sheet date from reinsurers for claims paid or incurred by the ceding insurer and associated claims settlement expenses, including estimated amounts for claims incurred but not reported, and policy benefits, net of any related valuation allowance. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AarpDisclosuresPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> AARP Disclosures Policy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AarpDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> AARP Disclosure [Text Block] </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfNoteToSubsidiary">
<definition> Proceeds from issuance of note to subsidiary </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashDividendsPaidToParentCompanyByConsolidatedSubsidiaries">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationRevenueFromExternalCustomers">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicalCostsMedicalCostsPayableDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Disclosure of medical costs and medical costs payables including estimates of obligations for medical care services that have been rendered on behalf of insured consumers but for which claims have not yet been received or processed, and for liabilities for physician, hospital and other medical cost disputes. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsCommonStock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfProductiveAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_TotalNumberOfAllegedViolationsByCaliforniaDepartmentOfInsuranceCdi">
<definition> Total Number of Alleged Violations by the California Department of Insurance (CDI) </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DeferredTaxAssetsLongTermLiabilities">
<definition> Deferred Tax Assets Long Term Liabilities </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MortgageBackedSecuritiesFairValueDisclosure">
<definition> Mortgage-backed Securities, Fair Value Disclosure </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredOtherTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_MortgageBackedSecuritiesAvailableForSaleFairValueDisclosure">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMinimum">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MarketableSecuritiesAmortizedCost">
<definition> This item represents the cost of debt and equity securities [including held-to-maturity, trading, and available for sale], net of adjustments made for accretion, amortization, other-than-temporary impairments, and hedging, if any. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithoutSingleMaturityDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearNetCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_BuildingsAndImprovementsGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ExpectedAmortizationExpenseTextBlock">
<definition> Expected amortization expense. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MaturityRangesOfInterestRateSwapContracts">
<definition> Maturity ranges of interest rate swap contracts. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsNetCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetPurchasesSalesIssuancesSettlements">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MortgageBackedSecuritiesByCreditRatingAndOriginationTextBlock">
<definition> Mortgage-Backed Securities by Credit Rating and Origination. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CapitalContributionsToSubsidiaries">
<definition> Capital contributions to subsidiaries </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesNewIssues">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_NumberOfSecuritiesUnrealizedLossesPosition">
<definition> Number of security positions generating unrealized losses. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_NotePayableToSubsidiary">
<definition> Note payable to subsidiary </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_EquityInUndistributedIncomeOfSubsidiaries">
<definition> Equity in undistributed income of subsidiaries </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationOtherAdjustments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_InterestIncomeAndRealizedGainsLossesRelatedToAssetsUnderManagement">
<definition> Interest income and realized gains and losses related to assets under management recorded as an increase to the AARP Rate Stabilization Fund. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsInterestOnIncomeTaxesAccrued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_InterestRateFairValueHedgeOnBalanceSheetDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> Interest rate fair value hedge on balance sheet disclosure </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MaximumPercentageOfIndebtednessToTotalNetCapitalBankCovenant">
<definition> Maximum percentage of indebtedness to total net capital bank covenant </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossTwelveMonthsOrLonger">
<definition> Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Losses, Twelve Months or Longer. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInHealthCareInsuranceLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_BasisOfPresentationPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Basis Of Presentation Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_LettersOfCredit">
<definition> Amount of letters of credit that are available to bond contractual performance. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MaturityDateOfCommercialPaper">
<definition> Maturity date of commercial paper </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsLossRecognizedInIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfComponentsOfDeferredIncomeTaxeAssetsAndLiabilitiesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterFiveThroughTenYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationUnrecognizedCompensationCostsOnNonvestedAwardsWeightedAveragePeriodOfRecognition">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsGoodwillPolicy">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesContinuousUnrealizedLossPositionFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareAmortization">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseIncurredClaimsPriorYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InvestmentIncomeInterestAndDividend">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PolicyAcquisitionCostsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Policy acquisition costs policy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossAvailableForSaleSecuritiesAdjustmentNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasuredOnRecurringBasisInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueByBalanceSheetGroupingTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossUnrealizedGains">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberDilutedSharesOutstandingAdjustment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AssetsUnderManagement">
<definition> The Assets Under Management are primarily AARP assets that are managed separately from the general investment portfolio and are used to pay costs associated with the AARP program. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLifeMaximum">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedForfeitures">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Forfeitures </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ChecksOutstandingInExcessOfBankDeposits">
<definition> Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of bank checks outstanding in excess of bank deposits. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncomeTaxPenaltiesAndInterestExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterOneThroughFiveYearsAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwards">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossForeignCurrencyTranslationAdjustmentNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_RecentAccountingStandardsPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Recent Accounting Standards Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicarePartDCatastrophicCoverage">
<definition> Medicare Part D catastrophic coverage. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsReductionsResultingFromLapseOfApplicableStatuteOfLimitations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedForRepurchase">
<definition> Additional shares authorized for repurchase </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_LossOfParentCompany">
<definition> Loss of Parent Company. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFive">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MedicarePartDAnnualOutOfPocketMaximum">
<definition> Medicare Part D annual out of pocket maximum. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FuturePolicyBenefitsAndReinsuranceReceivablesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Future Policy Benefits And Reinsurance Receivables Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LeaseAndRentalExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateContinuingOperations">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_FairValueDisclosuresPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Fair Value Disclosures Policy. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CapitalizedComputerSoftwareAccumulatedAmortization">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PlaintiffsCounselFeesAndExpensesFederalCourt">
<definition> Plaintiffs counsel fees and expenses, federal court </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireProductiveAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_NumberOfBanks">
<definition> Number of Banks </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillTranslationAndPurchaseAccountingAdjustments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtSecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DebtInstrumentFaceAmountCashTenderPurchase">
<definition> Debt Instrument, Face Amount, Cash Tender Purchase </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestingPeriod">
<definition> Share Based Compensation Arrangement By Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Vesting Period </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_SuretyBondsOutstanding">
<definition> Surety bonds outstanding </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SalesRevenueServicesNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeForeignCurrencyTransactionAndTranslationGainLossArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrentAndOtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent">
<definition> Deferred tax liabilities noncurrent and other liabilities noncurrent. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AarpProgramRelatedInvestments">
<definition> AARP Program Related Investments </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityRegistrantName">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGains">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseIncurredClaimsCurrentYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForFuturePolicyBenefits">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ReinsuranceRecoverables">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_QuarterlyFinancialInformationTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AvailableForSaleInvestmentsClassifiedByContractualMaturityDateTextBlock">
<definition> Available for Sale Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ReinsuranceRecoverablesCurrent">
<definition> The current portion of the known and estimated amount recoverable as of the balance sheet date from reinsurers for claims paid or incurred by the ceding insurer and associated claims settlement expenses, including estimated amounts for claims incurred but not reported, and policy benefits, net of any related valuation allowance. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_UseOfEstimatesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> Use Of Estimates Policy </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfAvailableForSaleSecurities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesUnrealizedLosses">
<definition> This item represents the unrealized losses on debt or equity securities categorized neither as held-to-maturity nor trading securities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfOtherInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DiscountedStockPurchasePriceCalculation">
<definition> Discounted stock purchase price calculation </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_NetFavorableMedicalCostDevelopment">
<definition> Net favorable medical cost development </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpense">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedVolatilityRateLowerLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate, Lower Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CondensedFinancialInformationOfParentCompanyOnlyDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesOtherComprehensiveIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationUnrecognizedCompensationCostsOnNonvestedAwards">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_WeightingOfImpliedVolatility">
<definition> Weighting of implied volatility </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherPolicyholderFunds">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EarningsPerSharePolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_WeightingOfHistoricalVolatility">
<definition> Weighting of historical volatility </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ProceedsFromRepaymentsofCommercialPaper">
<definition> The net cash inflow (outflow) associated with commercial paper. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DepreciationPremisesAndEquipment">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SegmentReportingSegmentAssets">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_NetTaxBenefitGeneratedFromReductionInInterestAccrued">
<definition> Net tax benefit generated from reduction in interest accrued. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateDuringPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfComponentsOfIncomeTaxesTextBlock">
<definition> Schedule of Components of Income Taxes </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CashAndInvestmentHeldByNonRegulatedEntities">
<definition> Cash and investment held by non-regulated entities. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedHoldingGainLossOnSecuritiesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsMethodUsedTextBlock">
<definition> For each plan, identification of the award pricing model or other valuation method used in calculating the weighted average fair values disclosed. The model is also used to calculate the compensation expense that is shown within the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow. Examples of valuation techniques are lattice models (binomial model), closed-form models (Black-Scholes-Merton formula), and a Monte Carlo simulation technique. Fair value is the amount at which an asset (or liability) could be bought (or incurred) or sold (or settled) in a current transaction between willing parties, that is, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. May include disclosures about the assumptions underlying application of the method selected. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetGainLossIncludedInEarnings">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeReclassificationAdjustmentForSaleOfSecuritiesIncludedInNetIncomeTax">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_RealizedGainLossTextBlock">
<definition> This item represents the disclosure related to the realized gains and losses reported in the statements of income that have resulted from the gain or loss on investments; the gain or loss on the sale of subsidiaries/businesses; and the results of embedded derivative liabilities and the associated derivative instruments used to hedge them. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationExercisableOptionsContractualTerm">
<definition> Share-based compensation, exercise price range, exercisable options, contractual term. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTextBlock">
<definition> Maturities of long-term debt </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedGainLossNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CostOfGoodsSold">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearFour">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTerm">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_UnrealizedLossPositionInvestementsTextBlock">
<definition> Unrealized loss position investments. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_SeniorNotes">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ComputerEquipmentGross">
<definition> Computer equipment, gross. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_SummaryOfReconciliationOfUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsTextBlock">
<definition> Summary Of Reconciliation Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesEmployeeStockPurchasePlans">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_TradingSymbol">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpenseCompensationAndBenefitsShareBasedCompensationCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_CmsPremiumRevenuesAsPercentageOfConsolidatedRevenues">
<definition> Premium revenues from CMS as a percentage of total consolidated revenues. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsVestedAndExpectedToVestOutstandingNumber">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PercentageOfLoansInDefault">
<definition> Percentage of Loans in Default </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AcquiredFiniteLivedIntangibleAssetWeightedAverageUsefulLife">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShortTermInvestments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_Revenues">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualRecordedLiability">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FutureAmortizationExpenseYearTwo">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_OtherReceivables">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsForfeituresInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesGrossRealizedLosses">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesUnrecognizedHoldingGains">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaidPriorYears">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LiabilityForUnpaidClaimsAndClaimsAdjustmentExpenseClaimsPaidCurrentYear">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DeferredTaxAssetsUnrecognizedTaxBenefits">
<definition> Deferred tax assets, unrecognized tax benefits. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAfterTenYearsNetCarryingAmount">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PrepaidExpenseAndOtherAssetsCurrent">
<definition> Sum of the amounts paid in advance for capitalized costs that will be expensed with the passage of time or the occurrence of a triggering event, and will be charged against earnings within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, as well as, aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets not separately presented elsewhere in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardFairValueAssumptionsExpectedTermUpperLimit">
<definition> Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term, Upper Limit </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_EquityInNetAssetsOfSubsidiaries">
<definition> Equity in net assets of subsidiaries </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_AarpRelatedAssetsAndLiabilitiesDisclosureTextBlock">
<definition> AARP Related Assets And Liabilities Disclosure </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOutstandingChecksFinancingActivities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_MarketableSecuritiesUnrealizedLosses">
<definition> This item represents the unrealized loss on debt and equity securities, including held-to-maturity, trading, and available for sale. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfCondensedConsolidatingStatementOfOperationsTableTextBlock">
<definition> Disclosure of the condensed statement of operations normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ChangeInUnrealizedGainLossOnHedgedItemInFairValueHedge">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityPublicFloat">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_OtherThanTemporaryImpairmentLossesRecognizedInEarnings">
<definition> Other-than-temporary impairment losses recognized in income. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringBasisDerivativeFinancialInstrumentsLiabilities">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesAmortizedCost">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PortionOfImpairmentLossRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncome">
<definition> Portion of impairment loss recognized in other comprehensive income. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PenaltiesPerViolationMaximum">
<definition> Penalties per Violation, Maximum </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_HeldToMaturitySecuritiesFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_HeldToMaturityInvestmentsClassifiedByContractualMaturityDateTextBlock">
<definition> Held to Maturity Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_InterestPaid">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_AvailableForSaleSecuritiesDebtMaturitiesWithinOneYearFairValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetTransfersNet">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndOtherLiabilities">
<definition> Deferred income taxes and other liabilities </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDeferredIncome">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtInstrumentsTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_PolicyholderBenefitsAndClaimsIncurredHealthCare">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ScheduleOfCondensedConsolidatingBalanceSheetTableTextBlock">
<definition> Disclosure of the condensed consolidating balance sheet normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOther">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_PercentageOfTotalFairValue">
<definition> Percentage of total fair value </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_NotionalAmountOfFairValueHedgeInstruments">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisTextBlock">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue">
<definition> No authoritative reference available. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
<Element Id="unh_ShareBasedCompensationNetOfTax">
<definition> Share-based compensation expense, net of tax effects. </definition>
<reference> No authoritative reference available. </reference>
</Element>
</DefinitionAndReference>

2 Subsequent Filings that Reference this Filing

  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 6/05/11  SEC                               UPLOAD10/06/17    1:46K  Unitedhealth Group Inc.
 4/27/11  SEC                               UPLOAD10/06/17    1:67K  Unitedhealth Group Inc.
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Filing Submission 0001193125-11-030615   –   Alternative Formats (Word / Rich Text, HTML, Plain Text, et al.)
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