Christ Hospital seals surgery deal with UnitedHealth Group division

Christ Hospital has negotiated a contract with Optum, the data services division of national health insurer UnitedHealth Group, that could make the Cincinnati medical center the preferred destination for some of the nation's largest employers. Those who work for employers with access to Optum's Center of Excellence network now have the option of choosing Christ Hospital's Joint & Spine Center for total hip and knee replacements as well as some kinds of spine surgery – and having the cost of the surgery fully covered. Employers with the program will have their insured workers and dependents guided through the joint- and spine-care process by a nurse navigator, who will help them choose a doctor, provide information about the procedures and offer medical care from diagnosis through recovery.