Healthcare providers and patients alike are likely familiar with the process of waiting for prior authorization automation. This is the back-and-forth between providers and healthcare insurance companies to obtain consent to perform a procedure so that it may be covered by the insurance company. Unfortunately, this back-and-forth is known to be a very lengthy process that requires both time and attention. Meanwhile, 1 in 3 U.S. providers say prior authorization delays have led to an adverse event for patients. But how can this delay cost healthcare providers?
On average, $11 and 20 minutes are used for every single prior authorization request. In turn, around 35% of healthcare providers have opted to hire staff exclusively for prior authorization requests, which means their salary is an extra cost to the provider as well. Even worse than money, prior authorization delays lead to patient outcomes that can be more detrimental or costly than the original procedure. Patients waiting for prior authorization are hospitalized 25% of the time, have a life-threatening event 19% of the time, or have permanent damage or death 9% of the time.
Fortunately, new artificial intelligence systems make prior authorization easy. This technology automates the collection of patient data, compiles the necessary documents, files the prior authorization status, and automatically checks the status of request. Regardless of the healthcare you provide, using this helps to take administrative burden off your staff and helps you help your patients.
Source: Orbit Healthcare