Big news just dropped in the healthcare world: over 50 major U.S. health insurers—including UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield—have pledged to overhaul the prior authorization process.

By 2027, they aim to provide real-time decisions for 80% of electronic prior authorization requests, provided all necessary clinical documentation is submitted. More information on the insurers’ pledge can be found here.

It’s a big move, and one that could have a real impact on the administrative burden providers face every day.

At Infinx, we welcome this shift. We’ve been building toward it for years.

The Challenge Ahead

While the commitment is commendable, it’s important to recognize that similar promises have been made in the past, with limited follow-through. The current prior authorization process often leads to delays in care, increased denials, and administrative headaches for providers.

A 2024 American Medical Association survey found that 93% of physicians reported care delays due to prior authorization, and 82% said it sometimes led patients to abandon treatment.

Infinx’s Position

Our teams work with healthcare organizations across radiology, orthopedics, cardiology, GI, PT/OT and many other specialties to automate prior authorization workflows using AI and real-time integrations with payers and EMRs.

We’ve seen firsthand how the right technology can drastically cut turnaround times, reduce denials, and free up staff to focus on care, not paperwork.

But here’s the bottom line: pledges don’t change healthcare — execution does.

To actually meet these new standards and improve the patient experience, providers need more than good intentions from payers. They need solutions that are ready now — built for interoperability, speed, and scale.

Moving Forward Together

The path to reforming prior authorization is complex, but with collaboration and the right technology, it’s achievable. Infinx is committed to supporting healthcare providers through this transition, offering tools and expertise to navigate the evolving landscape.

We’re excited about the direction the industry is heading, and we’re here to help providers lead the way.

Let’s turn policy into progress. Together.