In a move aimed at streamlining healthcare access, health insurer Cigna Group (CI.N) has announced its decision to eliminate the utilization of prior authorization or paperwork for insurance coverage approval across 25% of medical services.
Pressure has mounted on health insurers as healthcare practitioners contend that the pre-authorization prerequisites for certain procedures place undue constraints and amplify administrative tasks.
Scott Josephs, Chief Medical Officer of Cigna Healthcare, highlighted, “Clinicians and health plans share the belief that concerted efforts can be undertaken to alleviate the administrative burdens on clinicians.”
The prior authorization or pre-certification process mandates healthcare providers to secure coverage approval for select non-emergency medical procedures.
Earlier this year, UnitedHealth Group (UNH.N) unveiled its intentions to curtail prior authorization requirements by 20% for specific non-urgent surgeries and procedures. This move, similar to Cigna’s endeavor, aims to foster a more efficient and less encumbered healthcare journey.
