As ophthalmologists, we see firsthand how delays in care negatively impact patients — especially seniors. Too often, our patients with serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, are forced to wait for insurance approvals before they can access sight-saving treatments.
A national American Medical Association survey found that 82% of physicians report the prior authorization process led to treatment abandonment and 29% of physicians report it led to a serious adverse event for a patient in their care. Delaying and denying care can mean irreversible vision loss.
Thankfully, some lawmakers in Washington have stepped up to put patients first. I commend U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene for being among the members of Congress reintroducing the bipartisan Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, H.R. 3514. If passed, it will help ensure that Medicare Advantage beneficiaries receive the treatments they need without unnecessary delays. By streamlining the prior authorization process, this bill would help reduce administrative burden on physicians and allow providers to focus on what matters most: patients.
I urge Congress to support and swiftly pass this legislation. Our seniors deserve timely, high-quality care — not bureaucratic red tape that puts their health at risk.
K. David Epley, M.D., Kirkland
