Prior auth reductions continue for members under 18

We’re taking another step to help reduce prior authorizations and show our commitment to simplify the health care experience. Beginning Dec. 1, 2026, we’ll remove nearly two-thirds of prior authorization requirements for select services provided to patients under age 18 as part of our continued effort to provide prior authorization requirement relief.

Included plans

Review the applicable procedure code details to see how these changes may benefit your practice.

The following plans are included in the program:

Because code removals vary by state and UnitedHealthcare plan, you can use the Prior Authorization and Notification tool on the UnitedHealthcare Provider Portal to quickly verify whether a service is included.

Excluded plans

The following plans are excluded from the program:

UMR plans not following the UMR prior authorization list
Health Plan of Nevada Medicaid
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans

Removing these prior authorization requirements clears the way for smoother workflows, quicker decisions and more timely care. See how we’re continuing to take action to eliminate even more prior authorization requirements.