UnitedHealthcare Scraps Prior Authorization Requirements for 1,700 Codes

UnitedHealthcare has announced that it will eliminate prior authorization requirements for over 1,700 procedure and diagnostic codes by October 1. This change affects approximately 30% of all healthcare services and impacts multiple specialties, including cardiology, chiropractic care, occupational and physical therapy, and orthopedics.

Certain lab and genetic tests will also no longer require pre-approval for reimbursement. The affected procedure codes vary by state, with North Carolina and Texas seeing the largest number of codes eliminated.

The move is part of UnitedHealthcare's effort to reduce administrative work and remove barriers that can delay care. By eliminating prior authorization requirements, patients and providers will have more time to focus on patient care.