Will AI fix prior authorization—or make it worse? Skip to content Ars Technica home Sections Forum Subscribe Search AI Biz & IT Cars Culture Gaming Health Policy Science Security Space Tech Feature Reviews AI Biz & IT Cars Culture Gaming Health Policy Science Security Space Tech Forum Subscribe Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Pin to story Theme HyperLight Day & Night Dark System Search Sign In Sign in dialog... Sign in theoretically expedited claims Will AI fix prior authorization—or make it worse? The government is piloting a program that uses AI for insurance-coverage decisions. Joshua Cohen, Undark Magazine – Jul 18, 2026 7:18 am | 31 Credit: showcake via iStock/Getty Images Plus Credit: showcake via iStock/Getty Images Plus Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav If you’re like me, you or a loved one has struggled through the process of gaining pre-approval for the medical care that your physician has recommended. Personal stories abound regarding the tribulations of patients as they go through hoops to get their health insurer to pay for certain prescription medications, medical procedures, and more.
When used judiciously, this process—known as prior authorization —serves as a check on overuse and spending on services or technologies for which there are less costly alternatives. But a large majority of physicians voice concerns about care delays, which can cause patients to abandon recommended treatments while waiting for the insurance company to verify their eligibility and confirm that the treatment is, indeed, medically necessary. Patients who are denied care may submit an appeal, but that requires more time. AI might be able to help.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/ai/2026/07/will-ai-fix-prior-authorization-or-make-it-worse/
When used judiciously, this process—known as prior authorization —serves as a check on overuse and spending on services or technologies for which there are less costly alternatives. But a large majority of physicians voice concerns about care delays, which can cause patients to abandon recommended treatments while waiting for the insurance company to verify their eligibility and confirm that the treatment is, indeed, medically necessary. Patients who are denied care may submit an appeal, but that requires more time. AI might be able to help.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/ai/2026/07/will-ai-fix-prior-authorization-or-make-it-worse/