UnitedHealthcare Rolling Out New Benefit Aimed At Early Cancer Detection

UnitedHealthcare is launching a new benefit aimed at encouraging preventive cancer screenings. Starting January 1, 2026, eligible commercial plans will cover members’ first diagnostic imaging for breast cancer and diagnostic tests for colon cancer at in-network providers.

The insurer said this move addresses a care gap, as follow-up testing after initial screenings is often not classified as preventive, leaving patients with unexpected costs. Rhonda Randall, D.O., chief medical officer of UHC’s commercial business, told Fierce Healthcare that concerns over such costs can discourage patients from completing recommended screenings.

“We wanted to remove that real or perceived barrier for beneficiaries,” Randall explained. About half of routine colonoscopies uncover polyps requiring further testing, and 11% of mammograms lead to additional imaging — both of which can become costly if not covered as preventive care.

Employers are increasingly focused on managing cancer care costs, and Randall noted that preventive screenings are a common priority in discussions with plan sponsors. Rising cancer rates among younger people add to the urgency: UHC data show that 16% of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women under 50, and colon cancer diagnoses among adults aged 18–50 have risen 15% since 2004.

This benefit is part of UHC’s broader cancer care strategy, which also includes member support programs and tools for providers at the point of care. The insurer leverages its large data sets to help employers understand risks in their populations, design campaigns to promote screenings, and target individuals with modifiable risk factors, such as obesity or smoking.

“With the scale of our data, we can break down healthcare experiences, outcomes, and costs to help employers make informed decisions and support their workforce,” Randall said.