AGA joins push against UnitedHealthcare’s CRNA reimbursement cut (Becker’s GI & Endoscopy)

UnitedHealthcare’s new policy slashing CRNA reimbursements by 15% has sparked backlash. The American Gastroenterological Association, joining a coalition led by nurse anesthetists, warns the cut could jeopardize access to cancer screenings and GI procedures—particularly in rural and underserved areas. Effective Oct. 1, anesthesia claims billed under the QZ modifier now receive just 85% of the allowable rate, though a handful of states are exempt. The fight over reimbursement could reshape patient access and practice economics.