WASHINGTON, DC: Last week, Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) joined Representatives Mike Kelly (PA-16), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Larry Buschon (IN-08), and Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) in reintroducing the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act. This bill, which was unanimously passed by the House during the 117th Congress, would streamline the prior authorization process under Medicare Advantage to make it easier for seniors enrolled in the program to access healthcare services. Specifically, the legislation would establish an electronic prior authorization process (e-PA), increase transparency, set timeline parameters for prior authorization requests, and expand beneficiary protections to improve health outcomes.
“As the only geriatric nurse practitioner in Congress, I am proud to be a voice for our nation’s seniors…especially those who depend on programs like Medicare to cover their healthcare needs,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “I have seen firsthand the struggles seniors and healthcare providers face trying to navigate Medicare Advantage’s prior authorization process. This bipartisan legislation aims to make this process more efficient and ensure seniors can access the care they need in a timely manner.”
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