Providing a holistic solution that alleviates delays in patient access to treatments

ARLINGTON, Va. – February 12, 2025 [UPDATED August 26, 2026] – Surescripts®, the nation's leading health intelligence network, unveils the first-of-its-kind Prior Authorization Automation technology, transforming prior authorizations to help alleviate one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges for patients.

Surescripts Prior Authorization Automation helps automate existing manual workflows, quickly getting patients started on the best treatment path.

“With a strong foundation of nationwide interoperability and a focus on innovation born out of cross-industry collaboration, Surescripts is thrilled to bring Prior Authorization Automation to care providers and payers nationwide,” said Frank Harvey, Chief Executive Officer for Surescripts. “This technology can meaningfully transform the manual prior authorization process, helping patients get started on high-quality, affordable, evidence-based treatment that is covered by their health plan -- without delay.”

“Prior authorizations have long been a frustrating and time-consuming hurdle for both providers and patients,” said Mel Nelson, Vice President of Specialty Pharmacy Consulting for Fairview. “It’s essential to find ways to simplify the process so patients get the medications they need faster, and clinicians can focus on care instead of paperwork. Technology continues to be a powerful tool in making healthcare more efficient and patient centered."

“When we’re sick, we shouldn’t have to think twice about the steps that happen between receiving a diagnosis from a clinician, being prescribed a treatment and taking the first dose of a medication,” said Tara Dragert, Chief Product Officer for Surescripts. “That was the purpose driving the innovative collaboration to develop Prior Authorization Automation. This technology will ensure patients can quickly access safe, quality treatment they need and deserve, while significantly reducing the administrative burdens facing all sides of the patient care team.”

As of 2023, over one-third of medical plans had an entirely manual prior authorization process that depended on phone, mail, fax and email.

Another survey showed that 87% of physicians said that the prior authorization process can increase healthcare utilization as patients try other ineffective treatments or make additional office visits—and potentially seek more expensive care such as emergency room visits—when they encounter prior authorization barriers.

Surescripts @ ViVE 2025

Connect with Surescripts at ViVE in Nashville, February 16-19, at Booth #1245 to learn more about the results of the innovative collaboration that is transforming the prior authorization process.

Join Dr. Lynne Nowak, Chief Data & Analytics Officer for Surescripts, for Transforming Prior Authorization, on Monday, February 17, 10:45 – 11:05 a.m. CT at the InteropNow! Pavilion - Data Innovation Theater.

Dr. Nowak will present the results of a recent partnership to reimagine the prior authorization workflow for faster speed to therapy for patients.

For Media: Dr. Nowak will also be available to answer questions at ViVE. Please contact Kate Giaquinto to schedule an interview.

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