Prior authorization is increasingly seen as a barrier to timely healthcare access, requiring insurers' approval before treatment.
Medical professionals report spending more time navigating authorization processes than attending to patients' needs, with many describing it as a leading source of frustration.
A recent study indicates that reforms such as maximizing response times could alleviate patient care delays.
Multiple states and a federal bill are pushing for prior authorization reform, aiming to streamline healthcare processes.
Concerns mount that the growing administrative burdens put a strain on doctors, diverting their focus from patient care.