UnitedHealthcare to Expand Telehealth Coverage for Members

UnitedHealthcare , one of the largest health insurance providers in the US, has announced plans to expand its telehealth coverage for members. The move comes as more people seek virtual healthcare options in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the expansion, UnitedHealthcare will waive cost-sharing for virtual visits through the end of the year, including for mental health services. The insurer will also expand the types of telehealth services covered, including physical therapy and occupational therapy.

In addition, UnitedHealthcare will launch a new virtual care platform for members, which will offer access to a range of virtual care providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health professionals.

"Expanding access to telehealth services is an important part of our ongoing efforts to improve access to care for our members," said Dirk McMahon, CEO of UnitedHealthcare.

The move by UnitedHealthcare follows similar announcements by other health insurers, as virtual care becomes increasingly popular among consumers. According to a recent survey, 70% of consumers said they would be willing to use telehealth services in the future.

The expansion of telehealth coverage is seen as a positive step towards improving healthcare access and affordability, particularly for those in rural or underserved areas. It is also expected to help reduce healthcare costs, as virtual visits are often less expensive than in-person appointments.

Overall, the move by UnitedHealthcare is likely to have a significant impact on the healthcare industry, as more insurers and healthcare providers embrace telehealth as a viable option for delivering care.