Optum Rx, the pharmacy benefit manager under UnitedHealth Group, will remove prior authorization requirements for approximately 80 prescription drugs, aiming to streamline access for patients with chronic conditions.
The policy change is expected to cut reauthorizations by 25%, accounting for over 10% of the company’s pharmacy network, according to a March 19 company news release.
The initiative aligns with UnitedHealth’s broader effort to streamline access. In 2023, the insurer scaled back prior authorization requirements by 20% and launched a gold card program in 2024 to allow some providers to bypass prior authorization for certain services.
Starting in April, Optum Home & Community Care, formerly known as NaviHealth, said it would remove prior authorization for home health services under Medicare Advantage and dual special needs plans across more than 30 states.
