UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage HMO Referral Requirement – FAQs

What's changing in 2026?

Beginning in 2026, patients enrolled in a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage HMO plan will be required to obtain an electronic referral from their primary care provider (PCP) before receiving specialty care. Pikes Peak Nephrology has waived this referral requirement through March 1st. Appointments after March 1st will require an active referral to be seen in our office.

Pikes Peak Nephrology Associates remains in-network

We want to reassure our patients that Pikes Peak Nephrology Associates will remain in network with UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans. However, to be seen by one of our providers, your primary care provider must submit an electronic referral to UnitedHealthcare, and that referral must be active on the date of your appointment with Pikes Peak Nephrology.

My PCP sent a referral to Pikes Peak Nephrology for my care. Is anything else required?

Yes. Beginning in 2026, you will need to contact your PCP and have them submit an electronic referral to UnitedHealthcare in order to be seen in our office.

What do I need to do?

Please contact your PCP to confirm they’ve submitted an electronic referral to UnitedHealthcare for your upcoming Pikes Peak Nephrology appointment.

Who is responsible for submitting the referral?

Your PCP must submit the electronic referral to UnitedHealthcare.

Can Pikes Peak Nephrology Associates submit the referral for me?

No. UnitedHealthcare requires referrals to be submitted by your PCP.

What should I do if I’m having trouble getting a referral?

Please contact our billing office at 719-955-2656. Our team is happy to guide you through the process.