The nation's largest health insurer recently announced it is leaving America's Health Insurance Plans, saying it no longer believes the trade group represents its interests.

UnitedHealth Group provides health coverage to about 45 million Americans, according to Reuters. The company said in a statement that AHIP no longer represents its interests or those of its customers, so it will part ways with the association June 30.

"AHIP has set forth a strategy and direction it feels best serves a membership profile and need that does not fit UnitedHealth Group and our diversified portfolio," the company said.

Word of the departure comes roughly a month after longtime AHIP CEO Karen Ignagni resigned to become head of EmblemHealth, a New York City-based health insurer. Dan Durham, AHIP's executive vice president for strategic initiatives, was appointed interim CEO.

AHIP said despite the departure, it continues to represent a majority of the health insurance industry.

"Our board has focused us on the critical issues facing health insurers and the customers we serve, including affordability, high-cost drugs and Medicare Advantage," Durham said in a statement. http://reut.rs/1e3NNFv

MORE CEO DATELINE

• For-profit college association dealt legal blow
• Specialty Food Association launches first ad campaign
• Groups urge end to funding cuts for scientific research
• Association: Online privacy should remain in place after death
• Fly-ins this week: NAfME sings praises of music in schools, ABC seeks curbs on agencies