Physicians Detail Adverse Effects of Prior Authorization

Typically espoused as a cost-savings tool by insurers to prevent over-utilization of healthcare services, physicians spoke out against prior authorization requirements at a House Small Business Committee Hearing this past week. Concerns over time and the cost to comply with insurer regulations are negatively affecting patient outcomes. Physicians cited the inability to treat patients in the best way because insurance companies won't approve a treatment. To view the hearing and read the testimony, click here. 

• A study published from the American College of Rheumatology found that 71 percent of patients who were prescribed an infused biologic experienced treatment delays and/or denials from pre-authorizations, click here.