Iowa Bill Aims to Speed Up Insurance Approval Process for Medical Treatment

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A bill working its way through the Iowa Senate could speed up the process insurance companies and government-run insurance programs require before approving a patient's medical treatment. Supporters, including the Iowa Medical Society and the state's two major hospital systems, say the bill would address a major pain point for healthcare providers by requiring a peer-to-peer review when a doctor contacts a patient's insurance company to try to reverse denied care. However, insurance companies oppose the legislation.

Why it matters

The bill is aimed at reducing the administrative burdens and paperwork that healthcare providers face when seeking approval for medical treatments from insurance companies. Supporters argue this will allow doctors to spend more time providing patient care instead of navigating complex insurance requirements.

The details

The bill would require insurance companies to conduct a peer-to-peer review when a doctor contacts them to try to reverse a denied treatment. It would also make it illegal for insurers to use artificial intelligence to authorize or deny medical treatment. The legislation is supported by Iowa's two major hospital systems, UnityPoint and MercyOne, but opposed by insurance companies.

• The bill is currently working its way through the Iowa Senate.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The bill must still pass the Iowa Senate and be signed into law by the governor before it can take effect.