AMA Survey Finds 95% of Physicians Say Prior Authorization Delays Care
Updated
Updated · American Hospital Association · May 14
AMA Survey Finds 95% of Physicians Say Prior Authorization Delays Care
2 articles · Updated · American Hospital Association · May 14
26% of physicians said prior authorization led to an adverse event for a patient, according to an American Medical Association survey released May 13.
95% reported delays in access to care and 92% said the process harms patient outcomes, underscoring how administrative reviews are affecting treatment.
32% said prior authorization requests are often or always denied, while 88% said the requirements drive higher resource use and unnecessary waste.
The survey also found the process is hurting physician and staff productivity, adding operational strain to concerns about patient safety and access.
With new federal rules targeting healthcare red tape, why do most doctors remain skeptical that real change is coming?
As insurers adopt AI, will it fix the approval crisis or just create faster, automated denials for patients?
Prior Authorization in Crisis: 75% of Physicians Report High Burden, Patient Harm, and Delays Drive Urgent Calls for Reform (2026)
Overview
As of May 2026, the healthcare system faces a significant crisis caused by prior authorization processes. These processes lead to widespread physician concerns and direct patient harm. The latest American Medical Association (AMA) survey findings from 2025 highlight the severity of these issues, prompting the AMA to actively challenge insurance companies. The crisis is driven by the administrative burdens and care delays that prior authorization creates, which not only frustrate physicians but also result in harm to patients. This situation underscores the urgent need for reform to protect both providers and patients.