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- Rural health leaders push to improve MA prior authorization
National rural health organizations are calling on Congress to advance the Improving Seniors' Timely Access to Care Act (S 1816/HR 3514). The bipartisan legislation is being championed by leading organizations to expedite care for seniors in rural communities.
If passed, the bill would modernize the prior authorization process within the Medicare Advantage insurance program.
What they're saying: In a letter, a dozen organizations urged lawmakers to support the bill to ensure timely access to care for rural Medicare beneficiaries.
- The CAP has also advocated for the bill. CAP members can contact their representatives to support the measure using our Action Center.
By the numbers: Over 10 million Medicare beneficiaries live in rural areas, with 42% enrolled in Medicare Advantage, and face higher rates of chronic conditions and fewer healthcare resources than urban populations.
- Prior authorization in Medicare Advantage exacerbates these disparities, leading to delays and increased health care costs.
- Nearly four in five clinicians in rural communities report increases in insurer-required administrative tasks over the past five years, heightening administrative burdens.
Rural health care challenges: Many rural facilities operate with limited staff and funding, making it difficult to manage administrative tasks, including prior authorization.
- 81% of rural clinicians report negative impacts on patient health due to insurer requirements.
- 89% of physicians note increased burnout from these administrative burdens.