Kentucky Medicaid reinstates prior authorization requirements

Earlier this year, the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services passed legislation to reinstate all prior authorization requirements that were in effect prior to Jan. 1, 2020, after pausing them throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.  

What you need to know 

You will need to request authorization for some behavioral services that you provide to UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Kentucky members on or after June 25, 2025. 

Review this quick reference guide to get details on which services/procedure codes will require prior authorization, the submission process and more.  

Note: Most routine outpatient behavioral health services do not require prior authorization or notification.  

Questions? 

Please email Optum Behavioral Health Solutions KY Network Management.