Just a quick post about United Health Care, Optum, and United Behavioral Health Plans and how they are handling CPT codes 90834 vs 90837.

All Optum, UBH, and UHC plans will automatically approve CPT code 90834 (45 – 55 minute individual therapy sessions) without authorization.

But you’ll now need to obtain authorization for individual sessions that are longer than 55 minutes using CPT code 90837.

So you can call (800) 888-2998 to obtain authorization for those sessions. They will limit the number of sessions with that CPT code and also provide you a unique “authorization number” that you’ll need to include on your CMS1500 form when filing claims.

We’re happy to help with the process anytime so drop us a line to talk about our mental health billing service.