Insurers Continue Prior Authorization Requirements for Medical Care

Doctors and patients say insurers continue to require prior authorization for medical treatments and procedures. The requirement remains common even after insurers stated they would limit its application.

Prior authorization is a process in which insurers review proposed treatments before approving coverage. Medical providers must submit documentation and wait for insurer decisions before proceeding with care.

Doctors and patients state that delays from this process persist across multiple specialties. They report that the practice affects scheduling and access to needed services. No specific changes to insurer policies were detailed in recent reports.