UHC, Optum Tighten Prior Auth Rules for Follow-Up PT Visits Under Many MA Plans

(This article was updated on Dec. 4 from its initial publication on Aug. 19 to include additional clarifications and guidance from UHC.)

In disappointing moves that walk back needed reforms to burdensome prior authorization policies announced in August 2023, UnitedHealthcare has expanded prior authorization requirements within certain plans for follow-up PT visits when services are provided in office and outpatient hospital settings, effective Sept. 1.

See which plans are impacted and which are excluded.

Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.

Create a free account Log in

You Might Also Like...

News

FTC Drops Legal Appeals, Abandons Noncompete Rule

Oct 8, 2025

In August 2024, the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas permanently barred the Federal Trade Commission's ban on employee noncompetes.

News

Now Available: APTA Practice Advisory on Primary Care Physical Therapy

Oct 8, 2025

Primary care physical therapy highlights the role of physical therapists as integral members of a patient's primary care team. It's important for PTs and

News

APTA Flash Action Strategy 2025: 8,500 Falls Prevention Letters Sent to Congress

Oct 6, 2025

Thousands of PT and PTA students participated in APTA’s Flash Action Strategy, Sept. 17-18, by creating social media posts and videos promoting falls