AHA supports bill to improve MA plans’ prior authorization process

The AHA today voiced support for the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act (H.R. 3107), bipartisan legislation that would establish requirements for the use of prior authorization under Medicare Advantage plans. “America’s hospitals and health systems are committed to ensuring patient access to the highest quality care in a timely manner,” AHA said in a letter to Rep. Suzan DelBene, D-Wash., who introduced the bill with Reps. Mike Kelly, R-Pa.; Roger Marshall, R-Kan.; and Ami Bera, D-Calif. “Your bill seeks to streamline and improve prior authorization processes, which would help providers spend more time on patients, instead of paperwork. We commend you for your focus on this important issue and look forward to working with you to make improvements to the prior authorization process to ensure patient access.”