Statement attributed to:
Patrice A. Harris, M.D.
Chair, American Medical Association Opioid Task Force and Immediate Past Chair of the AMA Board of Trustees
“While we recognize that some insurers have made steps to remove prior authorization for medication assisted treatment, for example, this report should be a wake-up call that too many patients face significant hurdles in accessing care.
“When a patient seeking care for an opioid use disorder is forced to delay or interrupt ongoing treatment because of a health plan utilization management coverage restriction—such as prior authorization—that can be harmful to their care and health. With respect to opioid use disorders, that could mean relapse or death from overdose.
“Increasing access to treatment is an essential component of reversing the nation’s opioid epidemic. We hope this report spurs insurers and regulators to act. The AMA is ready to work with them and all stakeholders to advance policies that will help our patients.”
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The American Medical Association is the premier national organization providing timely, essential resources to empower physicians, residents and medical students to succeed at every phase of their medical lives. Physicians have entrusted the AMA to advance the art and science of medicine and the betterment of public health on behalf of patients for more than 170 years. For more information, visit ama-assn.org.
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