HAP Statement on Senate’s Passage of Legislation to Streamline Prior Authorization

Harrisburg, PA (June 30, 2022) – The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) thanks the state Senate for its passage of Senate Bill 225, which reforms the processes for prior authorization and “step-therapy protocol.” HAP President and CEO Andy Carter released the following statement:

“HAP thanks senators for taking this important step to ensure that Pennsylvanians can quickly receive the care they need. Senate Bill 225 gives hospitals and health systems clear and predictable processes for securing prior authorization for patient treatment.

This milestone stems from diverse stakeholders coming together to benefit Pennsylvanians. HAP thanks Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill for her leadership as well as the Coalition to Improve Prior Authorization and Step Therapy for Pennsylvanians, health systems, insurers, legislative staff, and others for their work to reach consensus on this plan. HAP stands ready to support the House as it continues this important work.”

Background:  Senate Bill 225 reforms the prior authorization process to expedite approval of patient care and reduce administrative burdens for hospitals, physicians, and other health care providers. The legislation also requires insurers to create a process for patients and physicians to request exceptions from “step-therapy protocol,” also known as “fail first” programs.