UnitedHealth Group Expects to Restore Systems Impacted by Cyberattack by Mid-March

UnitedHealth Group is making strides in recovering from a recent cyberattack that disrupted operations across its systems, particularly those linked to its subsidiary, Change Healthcare.

The Minnetonka, Minnesota-based healthcare conglomerate expects a gradual restoration of affected systems by mid-March.

UnitedHealth Group's Recovery Efforts

UnitedHealth Group said it has bolstered its financial relief program for healthcare providers facing financial strain due to disrupted claims processing and other operational challenges.

"We are committed to providing relief for people affected by this malicious attack on the U.S. health system," Andrew Witty, CEO of UnitedHealth Group, said in a statement.

"All of us at UnitedHealth Group feel a deep sense of responsibility for recovery and are working tirelessly to ensure that providers can care for their patients and run their practices, and that patients can get their medications. We're determined to make this right as fast as possible," he added.

In the statement, UnitedHealth Group cited the steps to address the aftermath of the cyberattack, such as assisting affected parties. The company focuses on ensuring access to care and medications while navigating the challenges posed by the attack.

The restoration timeline for Change Healthcare systems indicates a phased approach, prioritizing critical functionalities. Pharmacy services have already significantly improved, with electronic prescribing fully operational and additional capabilities, such as claim submission and payment transmission, gradually becoming available.

The company is working to restore electronic payment functionality by March 15 and expects to resume testing and connectivity for medical claims by March 18.

Temporary Funding Assistance Programs

As part of its efforts to support healthcare providers, the UnitedHealth Group has launched temporary funding assistance programs to address short-term cash flow needs.

It includes advancing funds to providers to bridge the gap between historical and post-attack payment levels. Providers are encouraged to register for these programs, which offer financial relief without the burden of immediate repayment, allowing them to navigate the disruption caused by the cyberattack more effectively.

In addition to financial assistance, the UnitedHealth Group is implementing temporary measures to streamline administrative processes and facilitate patient care.

For example, prior authorizations for outpatient services under Medicare Advantage plans are temporarily suspended, along with utilization review for inpatient admissions. Similar measures are being taken for Medicare Part D pharmacy benefits, including temporarily suspending drug formulary exception review processes.

Acknowledging the impact on prescription services, the UnitedHealth Group has taken steps to ensure continued access to medications for patients. Major pharmacy claims and payment systems have been restored, with Optum Rx pharmacies sending medications to members based on their needs.

The company is also working to address remaining disruptions in pharmacy services, including specialty coupon programs and certain claims for infusion providers.

Despite the progress made in restoring operations, the UnitedHealth Group remains vigilant in addressing ongoing challenges and mitigating the impact of the cyberattack on its systems and stakeholders.