Physicians complete an average of 41 prior authorizations per week. This amounts to approximately 13 hours each week that physicians spend on administrative work instead of treating patients. If an insurer covers a treatment, physicians should not have to waste time ensuring access to it.
The flawed prior authorization process must be fixed! The U. S. House of Representatives is expected to vote soon on the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act. This bi- partisan legislation would require Medicare Advantage plans to adopt transparent prior authorization programs that adhere to evidence-based medical guidelines. It would also hold plans accountable for making timely prior authorization determinations and provide rationales for denials.
There are only a handful of legislative days left this year, so please join the fight to fix the broken prior authorization system.
The AMA has provided a link to easily contact your lawmaker in Congress.
