Will AI Streamline Prior Authorization or Lead to More Denials?

Prior authorization, the process of obtaining insurance pre-approval for medical care, is intended to curb overuse and spending but often causes care delays and patient frustration. While artificial intelligence could speed up approvals for straightforward claims by efficiently processing data, many physicians are concerned it may instead increase wrongful denials. A 2025 American Medical Association survey found that 61 percent of doctors worry AI will worsen denials for treatments they consider necessary.