More than nine in 10 physicians say health plan prior authorization requirements have a negative impact on patient clinical outcomes, according to a survey released today by the American Medical Association. Almost two-thirds of the 1,000 physicians surveyed reported waiting at least one business day for prior authorization decisions from health plans. Respondents reported spending nearly 15 hours to process an average 29 prior authorizations per week, and 86% said the burden had increased in the past five years. "Under prior authorization programs, health insurance companies make it harder to prescribe an increasing number of medications or medical services until the treating doctor has submitted documentation justifying the recommended treatment,” said AMA Chair-elect Jack Resneck Jr., M.D. “In practice, insurers eventually authorize most requests, but the process can be a lengthy administrative nightmare of recurring paperwork, multiple phone calls and bureaucratic battles that can delay or disrupt a patient’s access to vital care.” In January, six organizations representing health plans and health care providers, including the AHA and AMA, agreed to collaborate to improve the prior authorization process.

Related News Articles

Perspective
House members are back in their districts for the August recess and senators are likely to return to their states soon.While lawmakers are home, it’s important…
Headline
The Trump administration today announced steps drug manufacturers must take to lower prescription drug prices in the U.S. to "most favored nation" pricing, the…
Headline
The Department of Health and Human Services today issued a notice announcing a 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program as a voluntary mechanism for qualifying drug…
Headline
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz, M.D., July 19 visited AtlantiCare health system in New Jersey, making stops at its…
Headline
The Congressional Budget Office today released its estimate of the budgetary effects of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, as enacted. CBO projects the law will…
Headline
Health Insurance Marketplace insurers will propose a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, according to an analysis of preliminary rate filings published…