A review of over 1,700 prior authorization requests for pain medication in cancer patients showed that the majority were approved, but many patients still experienced uncontrolled pain and side effects after denials. The study presented at ASCO Annual Meeting emphasizes the need for a more effective and transparent prior authorization process to ensure timely access to essential pain management. Researchers found that delays in approval only served to delay appropriate pain management. Patients affected by denials often experienced uncontrolled pain or side effects and some required hospitalization. Advocacy and national policy changes are needed to address this issue.
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Findings highlight need to improve prior authorization process for cancer pain management
