Prior authorization bill introduced in Senate

Dec 18, 2020 - 02:36 PM
REMA-legislation-introduced

Sens. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, and John Thune, R-S.D., yesterday introduced the Improving Seniors' Tmely Access to Care Act (S. 5044), bipartisan legislation that would require Medicare Advantage plans to establish an electronic prior authorization system and provide “real-time” decisions for routine services and items.

In a letter to the sponsors, AHA said the bill “takes important steps to streamline and improve prior authorization processes,” and recommends additional provisions to ensure prompt access to care and reduce administrative burden. In particular, the association recommends the legislation include response timelines, and require plans to share their decision criteria and report on their decision timelines without exception.

The bill was referred to the Senate Finance Committee. It is similar to legislation (H.R. 3107) introduced in the House last year.

Related News Articles

Headline
AHA supports House bill pausing home health cuts for two years 
The AHA expressed support Nov. 3 for the bipartisan Home Health Stabilization Act (H.R. 5142), legislation that would establish a two-year pause on planned…
Chairperson's File
Chair File: Inside the Shutdown and Other Key 2025 Priorities
Public
This week brings the fourth week of the federal government shutdown as Congress has yet to pass legislation to fund the government. This shutdown is a bit…
Headline
Shutdown continues with no significant progress toward funding deal
The government shutdown is expected to continue into next week as the Senate is expected to adjourn Oct. 23 with no plans to vote this weekend. The chamber Oct…
Headline
Government funding bill fails 10th time in Senate as chamber adjourns until next week
The Senate Oct. 16 failed for a 10th time to advance the continuing resolution to extend government funding and end the ongoing shutdown. The chamber adjourned…
Chairperson's File
Chair File: Leadership Dialogue — Legislative Outlook and Health Care Advocacy with AHA Executive Vice President Stacey Hughes
Public
There is a saying that is very timely for our field: A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor. As we head into the final months of 2025, hospitals and health…
Headline
Shutdown expected to continue next week as Senate adjourns
The federal government shutdown is expected to continue into next week as the Senate adjourned Oct. 9 after failing to pass spending legislation; senators plan…