UnitedHealthcare suspends certain prior authorization requirements for in-network hospitals, SNFs due to COVID-19

UnitedHealthcare has suspended through the end of this month certain prior authorization requirements for in-network hospitals and skilled nursing facilities in its Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, individual and group health plans.

The suspensions are effective Dec. 18, 2020, through Jan. 31, 2021.

“After Jan. 31, 2021, we may retrospectively review select services rendered during this time period,” the health insurer said on its website. “Admission notification is still required during this time, in alignment with the current protocol to support you in arranging post-admission care or other support services, if needed.”

The AHA has urged private insurers to ease the burden on providers, including eliminating prior authorizations, to help “ensure that the health care system is there for anyone who needs care during the COVID-19 emergency.”