UnitedHealth Group is expanding access to care
Care should be easier to get when and where people need it. We are making changes to reduce administrative barriers, support care providers, bring care closer to home and help more people connect to the services and support they need.
Making changes that make care easier to navigate
For too many people, getting care 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 working to help reduce these barriers for patients and providers.
The impact
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.
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
We have 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, including AI, is helping people find answers, navigate benefits and receive more connected care.
Disclaimer: Products and services are provided by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or its affiliates.