From payers announcing cuts, to a lawmaker investigation denials, here are five updates about prior authorizations Becker's reported since Aug. 17:
1. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is cutting approximately 20 percent of its prior authorization requirements and expanding its gold-card program.
2. The first wave of UnitedHealthcare's prior authorization cuts began Sept. 1. In August, the payer released details of its plan to eliminate 20 percent of its current prior authorization. The cuts are coming across two waves. The second phase will begin Nov. 1.
3. Cigna Healthcare removed prior authorization requirements for more than 600 medical procedures, cutting the number of prior authorizations it requires by 25 percent.
4. U.S. Rep. Mark Green of Tennessee introduced a bill targeting prior authorization requirements in Medicare and Medicare Advantage, as well as prior authorization fixes for Medicare prescription drug plans.
5. U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone Jr. of New Jersey is launching an inquiry into prior authorization denials by Medicaid managed care organizations.