Temporary funding is available for qualifying providers financially impacted by the Change Healthcare data incident.
The UnitedHealth Group (corporate parent of Change Healthcare) first reported the cyber security threat on February 21st, 2024. It was stated that the threat actor gained access to a Change Healthcare environment that processes over 15 billion healthcare transactions annually. The attack was labeled as a "malicious attack on the U.S. health system" by Andrew Witty, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Group.
Most provider groups across the nation have felt the sting of this incident. The pathway to continue operations has varied and is contingent on many factors. Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) software and clearinghouse connections are significant elements contributing to the likelihood of reinstating "normal" RCM functions. Provisional funding is available to providers to mitigate the financial impact.
Funding through the Temporary Funding Assistance Program is based on the difference between the historical weekly claims/payments volume pre-disruption and the weekly volume post-disruption. There are no fees associated with the program; however, repayment of the funds received will be due after claims processing or payment processing services have resumed.
According to Optum (a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group), the qualifying conditions of the Temporary Funding Assistance Program are:
UnitedHealthcare medical, dental, and vision providers.
Providers who receive payments from payors that are processed by Change Healthcare.
Providers who have exhausted all available connection options (or may be in the process of implementing technical workaround solutions) and who work with a payor who has opted not to advance funds to providers during the period when Change Healthcare systems remain down.
To view an informational webinar, check funding eligibility, and/or access temporary funding support FAQs, please visit the Optum link below:
