CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
New codes added to outpatient radiology prior authorization program
UnitedHealthcare·Radiology, Cardiology·Prior authorization
Effective date
Sep 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 3, 2026
Summary
Beginning September 1, 2026, UnitedHealthcare will add two new imaging codes (CPT 70471 and 75577) to their outpatient radiology prior authorization program. These additions affect commercial plans, Community Plans, Individual Exchange Plans, Oxford Plans, and Rocky Mountain Health Plans, but do not apply to Medicare Advantage or Dual Special Needs Plans.
Action Required
By September 1, 2026: Billing team must update prior authorization workflows to include CPT codes 70471 (CT angiography head/neck) and 75577 (coronary plaque analysis) for UnitedHealthcare commercial, Community, Exchange, Oxford, and Rocky Mountain plans. Update billing software to flag these codes for prior auth requirements. Note that emergency room, urgent care, observation unit, and inpatient services are exempt from this requirement.