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The AHA this week encouraged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to standardize certain prior authorization processes to reduce administrative burden, and improve how it ensures that beneficiaries receive access to the services they need. “The AHA recognizes the value of prior authorization; however, the approach some health plans have taken negatively impacts patient care and adds significant additional cost and burden to the health care system,” the association said, thanking CMS for its focus on the issue. “Hospitals and health systems are committed to working with you to address these issues and believe changes to prior authorization processes can achieve positive results for patients, providers and health plans.” AHA participated today in a prior authorization summit held by CMS Administrator Seema Verma.