UnitedHealth Group is severing its relationship with America's Health Insurance Plans, the health insurance industry's largest trade group, according to The Wall Street Journal.

UnitedHealth, the largest U.S. health insurer, claims that its interests were no longer being represented.

"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," said Matt Stearns, a spokesman for UnitedHealth.

AHIP, which has almost 1,300 member companies, said the trade group remains committed to its agenda, which includes issues including the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and protecting consumers from rising prescription drug prices.

"AHIP has a strong and demonstrated track record of successful advocacy on behalf of the health insurance industry," said Dan Durham, AHIP's interim CEO. "Our board has focused us on the critical issues facing health insurers and the customers we serve, including affordability, high drug costs and Medicare Advantage."

The separation goes into effect June 30.