UnitedHealthcare Publishes List of Services That Will No Longer Require Prior Authorizations

Effective October 1, 2026, UnitedHealthcare will eliminate 30% of prior authorization requirements for healthcare services to reduce administrative work, lessen delays in care, and allow more time for patient care. This change affects a broad range of services across multiple specialties, including cardiology, chiropractic care, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as orthopedic procedures, among others. The update applies to Commercial, Medicare Advantage, Community, Individual Exchange, and Oxford plans. A full list of procedures codes that will no longer require prior authorization is available on UHCProvider.com.

This initiative is part of a series of commitments UnitedHealthcare announced in May to create a simpler, more seamless experience for patients and care providers. Other commitments include investing in digital tools that support electronic submission, real‑time status tracking and faster decisions and expanding their national Gold Card program, which recognizes provider groups who consistently adhere to evidence-based care guidelines. Qualifying care provider groups with Gold Card status follow a simple notification process for eligible procedure codes rather than the prior authorization process. This advance notification helps confirm eligibility and network status, but it does not require clinical information.

With these efforts, UnitedHealthcare aims to make healthcare simpler, more accessible, and more affordable.