UnitedHealth Group is expanding access to care
Making changes that make care easier to navigate
For too many people, getting care still means finding an available provider, waiting for approvals or traveling long distances. Mobility, transportation and complex pharmacy processes can also make it harder to receive preventive care, maternal care or needed medications. We are addressing the parts of the healthcare system we control to reduce these barriers for patients and providers.
Bringing care to more people
50%
faster payments for approximately 1,500 rural hospitals.
Supporting rural hospitals and care providers
UnitedHealthcare is helping improve financial stability and reduce administrative burden by accelerating payments to rural hospitals, including all Critical Access Hospitals, and exempting rural providers from most medical prior authorization requirements across all lines of business.
575,000
visits completed in low-income communities in 2024.
Bringing preventive care into the home
HouseCalls gives eligible UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members an annual in-home or virtual preventive care visit, making preventive care easier to access for people who may face mobility or transportation barriers.
4.7M
people served in value-based care models.
Advancing value-based care
UnitedHealth Group has more than doubled participation in these models over the past three years, helping make high-quality care more accessible, coordinated and focused on better outcomes.
How we’re expanding access to care
Simplifying access to medications
Optum Rx has eliminated 33% of drug reauthorizations for nearly 270 chronic-condition medications and is moving toward passing through 100% of manufacturer drug rebate discounts to clients by Jan. 1, 2028
Reducing approval requirements for children’s care
By the end of 2026, UnitedHealthcare plans to remove nearly two-thirds of prior authorization requirements for members under age 18.
Making approvals faster and more consistent
More than half of UnitedHealthcare’s prior authorization volume will be included in standardized electronic submission requirements, with that figure expected to exceed 70% by the end of 2026.
Explore more ways we’re building better health
Building healthier communities
Learn how local partnerships and targeted investments are helping communities address their most pressing health needs.
Making healthcare easier through innovation
Explore how responsible technology and AI are helping people find answers, navigate benefits and receive more connected care.