UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is included among the 10 Best Value Stocks to Buy in 2026 According to Warren Buffett.
On May 5, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) announced that it is removing authorization requirements for 30% of healthcare services that previously needed insurer approval. The company said the move builds on several recent commitments aimed at making healthcare simpler and more affordable. It also said the changes are intended to improve transparency and accountability across the healthcare system.
UnitedHealthcare noted that prior authorization is currently required for only 2% of its medical services. Of the authorization requests submitted, around 92% are approved, with decisions taking less than 24 hours on average. The company also stated that, within Medicare Advantage, it has fewer prior authorization requirements than any other insurer.
By the end of 2026, UnitedHealthcare plans to eliminate another 30% of its remaining prior authorizations. The changes will include select outpatient surgeries, certain diagnostic tests such as echocardiograms, and some outpatient therapies and chiropractic care. The company said a full list of the affected services will be available on UHCProvider.com before the changes take effect.
UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) is a healthcare and well-being company. Its business segments include Optum Health, Optum Insight, Optum Rx, and UnitedHealthcare. The UnitedHealthcare segment includes UnitedHealthcare Employer & Individual, UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement, and UnitedHealthcare Community & State.
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