Navigating the Cyberattack on Change Healthcare

On February 21, 2024, a cyberattack targeted UnitedHealth Group’s (UHG) Change Healthcare subsidiary, causing significant disruptions to their claims submission and payment processes.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a statement on the cyberattack.

Highlights:

• Medicare providers experiencing disruptions should reach out to their Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) to facilitate a transition to a new electronic data interchange if they need to switch clearinghouses for claims processing.
• HHS is implementing further measures to alleviate the impact of these disruptions, such as equipping MACs to accommodate paper claims and urging Medicare Advantage and Part D sponsors, along with Medicaid and CHIP managed care plans, to consider suspending or easing prior authorization requirements.

UHG has released information on how stakeholders can track the progress of the response to the cyberattack on Change Healthcare. The organization expects to begin testing and reestablish connectivity to its claims network and software on March 18, restoring service through that week.

IPSIS is monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.

Help sustain this vital advocacy with your donations. The International Pain and Spine Intervention Society (IPSIS) is a tax-exempt organization under US section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, contributions are deductible to the extent allowed by law