What is a negative impact of the Prior Authorization (PA) system on patients?

The negative impact of the Prior Authorization (PA) system on patients is reflected in the increased processing times and abandoned therapies. This occurs because the PA process often requires healthcare providers to submit detailed clinical information and undergo a review process before approval for treatment is granted. Consequently, patients may face delays in receiving necessary care, leading to prolonged periods without treatment. As a result, some patients may abandon their therapy or experience worsening conditions due to these delays.

While it is true that prior authorization can sometimes lead to denials of coverage, it does not always result in denials, making that option less accurate as a general negative impact. Additionally, the PA system does not guarantee immediate treatment, nor does it inherently decrease healthcare costs in a way that benefits patients. Thus, the processing times and the potential for abandoning necessary therapies most directly illustrate the challenges faced by patients in the PA system.