ASA Endorses Reintroduction of the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has expressed strong support for the reintroduction of the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation aimed at streamlining and modernizing the prior authorization process in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans. The Senate legislation, S. 1816, was introduced by Senators Roger Marshall, MD (R-KS) and Mark Warner (D-VA), with companion legislation, H.R. 3514, introduced by Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Ami Bera, MD (D-CA), and John Joyce, MD (R-PA). 

Prior authorization policies frequently delay or restrict patient access to medically necessary care. The bill’s provisions are designed to ensure more timely treatment for the over 30 million seniors enrolled in MA plans. This vital legislation would codify recent regulatory actions and implement a range of measures including a standardized electronic prior authorization process, enhanced transparency around insurer requirements, and new beneficiary protections. It also mandates that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) report to Congress on the program’s progress. 
 
The reintroduced bill has already received support from over 140 leading health care organizations and more than 120 bipartisan cosponsors. ASA urges its members to join in amplifying this momentum and advocating for swift passage of this critical reform. 

ASA will continue to work closely with stakeholders to reduce administrative burdens and ensure patients receive the timely care they need and deserve. 

See more information about the House legislation and its cosponsors here. 

See more information about the Senate legislation and its cosponsors here.