UnitedHealthcare Removing Prior Approval for Most Pediatric Services

UnitedHealthcare announced it will eliminate approximately two-thirds of prior authorization requirements for members under age 18 by the end of 2026, removing preapproval requirements for many diagnostic services, routine surgical procedures, and specialty care across pediatric fields including cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, and orthopedics.

The insurer said authorization will still be required for higher-complexity services, such as experimental treatments and specialty drugs. The change is part of a broader effort to reduce prior authorization requirements, a process associated with care delays; according to a 2024 American Medical Association survey, 93% of physicians reported delays in patient care while awaiting insurer approval for necessary treatment. Read more from The Hill here.