UnitedHealthcare drops prior authorization for 1,700 procedures starting October

UnitedHealthcare, the health-insurance arm of UnitedHealth Group, revealed that 1,700 diagnostic and procedure codes will be removed from its prior-authorization requirements effective October 1. The codes span multiple specialties, including cardiology, genetic testing, durable medical equipment, chiropractic, various therapies, orthopedics, home health, and site-of-service reviews. The update fulfills a commitment made earlier this year to lower prior-authorization volume by 30% by the close of 2026.

UnitedHealthcare said the policy shift will affect its commercial products and government-subsidized plans such as Medicare Advantage and ACA individual coverage. The change follows criticism from patients, physicians, lawmakers and regulators who argue that prior authorization adds unnecessary paperwork and delays care. A recent one outlet's analysis showed insurers denied between 12% and 18% of prior-authorization requests last year for those on Medicare Advantage, Medicaid or ACA plans. UnitedHealthcare framed the move as part of broader efforts to make health care less confusing and more affordable.