Simplify Prior Authorization

The SPA initiative began with a white paper in Fall 2020 - Private Payer Prior Authorization in Canada: Simplify Prior Authorization (SPA) which you can download from our website. The white paper highlighted the process challenges of prior authorization (PA) which places a heavy administrative burden on all stakeholders and can delay access to medications for patients. More education on PA is also needed, as are best practice standards so that plan sponsors and their advisors understand key metrics on how each payer manages PA claims. A lot has changed since 2021 and SPA is proud to have been part of this. SPA and our multi stakeholder advisory group identified OkRx as a preferred electronic prior authorization (ePA) solution provider, launched a new and comprehensive SPA website containing education and key information on PA, and deliver an advocacy and education strategy consisting of webinars, blogs, podcasts. The efforts of SPA and other key stakeholders like OkRx are driving the change in PA. The process of moving to ePA has begun, and with implementation there will be administrative efficiencies, improve time to access for patients, and improve data analytics for product listing and health outcome agreements. The most innovative insurers will soon move to electronic prior authorization (ePA). As well as facilitating the transition to ePA, the SPA initiative will be launching Best Practice Standards Guide for PA in 2024. This will be an essential tool for advisors and plan sponsors to evaluate insurers PA practices. Whether you want to know more, or you want to get involved, all are welcome to reach out at info@simplifypriorauth.ca and speak to Denise Balch, Project Manager.