Putting the Care Back in Healthcare: Why Doctors Should Prescribe Freely

The American healthcare system faces numerous challenges, but one of the most pressing concerns is the growing influence of insurance companies in medical decision-making. This interference often manifests in the form of prior authorization, a process where doctors must seek approval from insurance companies before prescribing certain medications or treatments. This system is deeply flawed and has detrimental consequences for patients and doctors.

A physician was stopped from prescribing opioids to a patient who was in hospice because the product was a “controlled substance”. Another patient who has persistent back pain caused by an MV accident has to see at least three doctors before she can get an Rx to help her cope with her pain. The idea that doctors can prescribe what they want is not accurate. Too often, prescribing is put into the hands of the insurer or state because they don’t trust educated medical staff to do what’s best for the patient.

Here’s why doctors should be allowed to prescribe what they want without insurance interference:

2. Delaying care can be harmful: Prior authorization processes can be lengthy and bureaucratic, causing delays in patients starting necessary treatment. This can have serious consequences, especially for patients with chronic or…