On January 14, 2008, UnitedHealthCare (UHC) announced that it is extending the deadline to apply for imaging accreditation to the third quarter (July – September) of 2008.  Originally scheduled for March 1, 2008, UHC stated that the company decided to extend the accreditation program implementation date after constructive and collegial feedback from physicians who participate in the UHC network.   Imaging procedures subject to accreditation include: CT, CTA, MRI, MRA, Nuclear Medicine, Nuclear Cardiology, PET and Echocardiography.  All physicians and facilities within the UHC network that perform outpatient imaging studies and bill on a 1500 Health Insurance Claim Form (HICF) or the electronic equivalent must obtain accreditation in order to ensure reimbursement.