UHC Preparing to Launch Prior Authorization Gold Card Program

UnitedHealthcare’s (UHC) Gold Card Program will take effect on October 1, with the list of eligible services released on September 1. Practices are now able to check their gold card qualification status through the UHC portal.

The Academy supports reducing administrative burdens for practices that deliver evidence-based care, as it improves patient access. However, the Academy remains skeptical the program will significantly reduce the administrative burden associated with UHC prior authorization requirements, especially because practices that receive gold card status will still need to participate in UHC’s advance notification process. UHC states it may “require medical records as part of the monitoring and continuing evaluation of practices that have qualified for Gold Card status.”

The Academy will provide updates as program details emerge, and will work to ensure your voices are heard and needs addressed.