Prior Authorization Burden Remains High Despite Insurer Promises

A new American Medical Association (AMA) survey of 1,000 physicians finds that prior authorization processes continue to have a devastating effect on patient outcomes and physician burnout. The survey results show, that despite promises from insurers, prior authorization programs continue to burden the health care system.

Among the 2025 survey’s key findings:

• 26% reported that prior authorization has led to a serious adverse event for a patient in their care, including hospitalization, permanent impairment or death.
• 95% said prior authorization delays access to necessary care.
• 79% reported that patients abandon treatment due to authorization challenges.
• Physicians, on average, complete 40 prior authorizations per week.
• 32% reported prior authorization requests are often or always denied.

ACOI members are encouraged to contact their members of Congress through the ACOI Action Center and ask them to pass legislation that would require greater transparency from Medicare Advantage plans about their prior authorization use.