The association administered the survey in December 2021 to a sample of 1,004 practicing physicians.
Here are five things to know:
1. Twenty-four percent of physicians reported that a prior authorization delay led to hospitalization of a patient, and 18 percent of physicians reported that those delays led to a life-threatening event or required intervention to prevent permanent impairment or damage.
2. Eighty-two percent reported that prior authorization delays can at least sometimes lead to treatment abandonment.
3. About 30 percent of physicians reported that prior authorization criteria are rarely or never evidence-based.
4. Physicians and their staff spend an average of almost two business days, or 13 hours, each week completing prior authorization forms.
5. Eighty-eight percent of physicians described the burden associated with prior authorization as high or extremely high.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.