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UnitedHealthcare to Drop Pre-Approval for Select Procedures by 2026

other · 2026-05-05

UnitedHealthcare announced it will eliminate prior authorization requirements for certain outpatient surgeries, echocardiograms, and specific therapies by the end of 2026. The move aims to streamline patient access and reduce administrative burdens. The insurer expects this change to affect approximately 30% of current pre-approval requests. This decision follows industry-wide criticism of prior authorization delays impacting patient care. UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health insurers in the United States.

Key facts

  • UnitedHealthcare will drop pre-approval for select outpatient surgeries, echocardiograms, and certain therapies.
  • The change takes effect by the end of 2026.
  • Approximately 30% of current pre-approval requests will be affected.
  • The policy aims to make it easier for patients to get procedures.
  • UnitedHealthcare is a major US health insurer.

Entities

Institutions

  • UnitedHealthcare

Locations

  • United States

Sources