UnitedHealthcare MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast prior authorization requirements (2026)
What UnitedHealthcare generally requires to approve MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast (CPT 72149), for Commercial plans. Yes. UnitedHealthcare generally requires prior authorization for MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast (CPT 72149).
Medical-necessity criteria UnitedHealthcare generally applies
[NEEDS CLINICAL SPOT-CHECK] Prior authorization/advance notification required for advanced outpatient spine imaging (CT, MRI, MRA) under UnitedHealthcare's Radiology Prior Authorization program, governed by UHC's Cardiovascular and Radiology Imaging Guidelines; the ordering provider must obtain authorization before scheduling.
How to submit
- Method: UHCprovider.com Radiology PA
Sources & verification
- BindingSource — Radiology prior authorization (UHCprovider.com) · effective 2025-02-01.View
Binding = the payer's own policy. Proxy = a public, evidence-based clinical guideline the payer mirrors. Portal-only = the binding criteria are confirmed in the administrator's portal. Always confirm against the payer for the member's specific plan. Last verified 2026-06-28.
Frequently asked questions
Does UnitedHealthcare require prior authorization for MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast?
Yes. UnitedHealthcare generally requires prior authorization for MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast (CPT 72149).
What does UnitedHealthcare require to approve MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast?
[NEEDS CLINICAL SPOT-CHECK] Prior authorization/advance notification required for advanced outpatient spine imaging (CT, MRI, MRA) under UnitedHealthcare's Radiology Prior Authorization program, governed by UHC's Cardiovascular and Radiology Imaging Guidelines; the ordering provider must obtain authorization before scheduling. Always confirm against the current UnitedHealthcare policy.
How long does a UnitedHealthcare prior authorization take?
Turnaround varies by plan and submission method. Check the UnitedHealthcare portal for current timeframes.
Submitting MRI Lumbar Spine with contrast to UnitedHealthcare?
Praxigen checks your clinical note against these criteria before you submit and drafts a policy-cited appeal if it is denied. You review and submit; nothing is sent automatically.