Tag: Prior Authorization process

Prior Authorizations

Prior Authorization in Medicare: What You Need to Know

Prior authorization, the requirement for pre-approval from your insurer for certain services, is a common practice in both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. While it helps manage utilization and costs, it can also be frustrating, especially when a request is denied. A 2023 study by health policy research revealed the increasing prevalence of […]
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Prior Authorization Burdens

Addressing Prior Authorization Burdens: Recent Reforms and Expert Perspectives

The prior authorization burdens associated with the process have long been a source of frustration for healthcare providers and patients. These burdens can impede optimal care by creating delays in treatment and increasing administrative tasks. However, recent legislative changes and insurer policies aim to alleviate these concerns and streamline the prior authorization process. A radiation […]
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MA Prior Authorization Denials

Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Denials on the Rise

Surge in MA Prior Authorization Denials: New Study Reveals A new study highlights significant variation among Medicare Advantage plans regarding the number of determinations made and the frequency of denials. Notably, MA Prior Authorization Denials surged between 2021 and 2022, according to a recent analysis from health policy research. Researchers examined data from the Centers […]
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Streamline Prior Authorizations and Reduce Stress for Your Patients

Streamline Prior authorizations can be a real pain, but with a few adjustments, you can make the process smoother and save yourself and your patients some stress. Here are 5 tips to streamline prior authorizations: Know Your Triggers: Become familiar with medications and procedures that frequently require prior authorization. Identify alternative options, like generics, that […]
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Prior Authorization Transformation

How Prior Authorization Transformation Benefits Patients, Providers and  Payers

Prior authorization transformation of consent is a source of worry and concern for everyone involved: patients, members, providers, and payers. What was needed was a structure to coordinate all stakeholders and organize the program. In January 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized requirements to expedite the authorization process; this requirement will […]
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New Billing Codes-for Prior Authorization Work Proposed by AMA

AMA Aims to Streamline Prior Authorization Billing with New Codes

New billing codes: Medical experts might consider creating new billing codes for the time doctors and their support staff spends working on prior authorizations. The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) Editorial Board meets May 9-11 in Chicago. On the meeting’s agenda are three potential new CPT codes “for reporting services (physician, QHP, […]
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Streamlining Prior Authorization Final Rule

The Impact of CMS-0057-F on Streamlining Prior Authorization Processes

The Interoperability and Prior Authorization Final Rule (CMS-0057-F) aims to streamline the prior authorization process, reducing delays in patient care and lowering administrative costs. Finalized by CMS on January 17, 2024, this rule is expected to save approximately $15 billion over the next decade by reducing burdens on patients, providers, and payers. Key Impacts of […]
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Prior Authorization Reform Rule Proposals

CMS Unveils Contentious Prior Authorization Reform Rule Proposals

Physicians and healthcare experts are urging Medicare to lead reforms in the time-consuming prior authorization (PA) process, which often causes delays in patient care. However, they caution against excessive reform, as it could exacerbate the problem rather than improving it. The U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have put forth two proposals for […]
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aha-calls-for-medicare-advantage-inclusion-in-prior-authorization-rule

AHA Calls for Medicare Advantage Inclusion in Prior Authorization Rule

The American Hospital Association (AHA) has asked CMS to include Medicare Advantage organizations in its proposed rule that would streamline the prior authorization process and reduce patient care delays. In December 2020, CMS released a notice of proposed rulemaking about improving prior authorization, following past administrative and clinician struggles. If the rule is finalized, there […]
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