Listen: Why Do I Need Prior Authorization? – KFF Health News
Listen in as “Life Kit” host Marielle Segarra and health reporter Sarah Boden untangle the red tape that can make the prior authorization process frustrating.
When the doctor says you need a prescription or treatment, sometimes you need approval from your health insurance first. That’s called prior authorization. Without that sign-off, insurance won’t pay.
What triggers the need for prior authorization is not fully clear. It’s another “black box” part of the health care system.
You might think insurance companies mostly target expensive treatments or care approaches when a disagreement over effectiveness prompts a prior authorization review. Often that’s not the case. Some doctors complain they spend a lot of time filling out paperwork to try to secure approval for medicine or treatments that are routine.
In the meantime, patients can be left in pain, while their medical conditions worsen.
Health Care Helpline helps you navigate the health system hurdles between you and good care. Send us your tricky question and we may tap a policy sleuth to puzzle it out. Share your story.
Article Source
Information contained on this page is provided by an independent third-party content provider. This website make no warranties or representations in connection therewith. If you are affiliated with this page and would like it removed please contact editor @producerpress.com
