United Healthcare will soon require radiologists to obtain preauthorization if none is on file for advanced imaging services that have been ordered by a non-participating provider.
The change takes effect for claims with dates of service on Sept. 7, 2010 or later, and it applies to outpatient CT scans, MRIs, MRAs, PET scans, and nuclear medicine studies, including nuclear cardiology. It does not apply to studies conducted in an emergency room, observation unit, or urgent care facility or during an inpatient stay.
Ordering or referring providers who participate with United will continue to be required to obtain preauthorization.
To obtain preauthorization, call (866) 889-8054 and select option one.
For more information, visit the United website and read the notification reference materials. You also may call your UnitedHealthcare representative, call the radiology clinical program help desk at (800) 637-5792, or email radiology@customerelation.com.