Preauthorization
Getting preapproval for some services
Preauthorization (also called precertification) means you need approval for certain services before you get care, or the plan won’t cover the cost. It’s most often required for hospital inpatient admissions and outpatient surgery. Your plan may also set certain conditions, medical settings, or other limits to coverage.
If you need preauthorization from a network doctor or hospital, your doctor will usually handle it for you; however, you should double-check by calling your medical plan third-party administrator (the numbers are shown below).
Other services that require preauthorization under the Premier, Contribution, Saver and Local Plans:
- Advanced imaging services – MRI and CT scans
- Travel benefits for complex care
- Services provided under the Centers of Excellence program
If your doctor doesn’t help with preauthorization, or if you’re considering care outside your plan’s network, you’ll need to call for preauthorization yourself.
You’ll find the number for your administrator on the back of your plan ID card. Not sure who your administrator is? Visit the Compare Plans page to find out.
- Aetna, Chicago Metro and south Florida: 800-525-6257
- Aetna, all other areas, (includes Banner Local Plan): 855-548-2387
- BlueAdvantage of Arkansas: 866-823-3790
- UMR, Mercy Arkansas Local Plan): 800-804-1272
- UMR, other plans: 855-870-9177
Need help?
Chat with a People Services Representative at One.Walmart.com/BenefitsChat or by calling 800-421-1362. 
See the 2024 Associate Benefits Book for more information about your benefits and eligibility. It will control over any conflicting information on this page.
