Cigna Healthcare, a subsidiary of The Cigna Group, has announced the removal of nearly 25% of medical services from its prior authorization (or precertification) requirements. This move, which involves the elimination of over 600 additional codes, means that since 2020, Cigna has removed prior authorization for more than 1,100 medical services. The aim is to simplify the healthcare experience for both patients and healthcare providers.
David Brailer, MD, executive vice president and Chief Health Officer of The Cigna Group, stated that the company’s objective is to ensure patient safety, enhance health outcomes, and make care more affordable. By reducing administrative tasks in the healthcare system, they hope to achieve these goals. The decision to make these changes was influenced by feedback from clinician partners.
Prior authorization, which is a review process designed to uphold patient safety and improve affordability by adhering to evidence-based care standards, will now apply to less than 4% of medical services for most Cigna Healthcare customers. The company is also planning to remove prior authorization for nearly 500 more codes for Medicare Advantage plans later this year.
Scott Josephs, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Cigna Healthcare, emphasized the importance of prior authorizations in ensuring patient safety and affordability. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to collaborating with clinicians to align on care delivery goals and outcomes.