Medicare AdvantagePrior AuthHigh impact
New streamlined radiation therapy prior authorization updates
UnitedHealthcare·Oncology, Radiology·Network News
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 13, 2026
Summary
UnitedHealthcare is streamlining radiation therapy prior authorization requirements effective January 1, 2026. Multiple existing codes will no longer require prior authorization, while new consolidated codes (77402, 77407, 77412, 77387-26) will be used for future prior auth requests for oncologic and hematologic diagnoses.
Action Required
By January 1, 2026: Billing team must update prior authorization workflows to remove prior auth requirements for radiation therapy codes 77385, 77386, G6015, G6016, 77014, G6001, G6002, G6017, 77401, and G6003-G6014. Update billing system to require prior authorization for new consolidated codes 77402, 77407, 77412, and 77387-26 when treating oncologic and hematologic diagnoses. Train staff on new code structure and update encounter forms. Existing approvals for treatments starting before Jan 1, 2026 remain valid.