Digital Debut

ASCA Supports Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act

If passed, this legislation will overhaul the prior authorization process at no cost to the patients

BY DAVID OPONG-WADEE | JUNE 13, 2025

ASCA backs the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2025, a critical, bipartisan and zero-cost bill that seeks to significantly streamline the prior authorization process for Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries. ASCA joins a coalition of more than 235 organizations, 52 senators and 120 representatives. This bill aims to reduce administrative burdens on healthcare providers, allowing them to dedicate more time to patient care rather than paperwork, and ultimately improving access to essential services for millions of seniors.

Senators Roger Marshall, MD (R-KS), and Mark Warner (D-VA) recently reintroduced the legislation. Both senators emphasized the urgent need to modernize the prior authorization system. Senator Marshall emphasized that “prior authorization is the number one administrative burden facing physicians today across all specialties.” Senator Warner noted that “our seniors deserve high-quality care delivered in a timely fashion.”

The bill enjoys significant bipartisan support in the Senate with a robust list of 52 cosponsors.

Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), John Joyce, MD (R-PA), and Ami Bera, MD (D-CA), introduced a companion bill in the House.

The Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act addresses long-standing concerns regarding prior authorization in MA plans. Audits by the Office of Inspector General at the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) have revealed that a significant percentage of initially denied requests were ultimately approved, and that MA plans have incorrectly denied access to services.

This legislation seeks to establish an electronic prior authorization process for MA plans, increase transparency, clarify HHS’ authority to set time frames for e-prior authorization requests, expand beneficiary protections, and require HHS and other agencies to report to Congress on program integrity efforts. Importantly, this bill is projected to have no cost to American taxpayers.

ASCA believes that this legislation is crucial for ensuring that the more than 32.8 million Americans enrolled in MA plans receive timely and appropriate care. By reducing unnecessary delays and administrative burdens, ASCs can continue to provide high-quality, cost-effective surgical care in a patient-centered environment. ASCA urges swift passage of this vital bill.

Furthermore, this reform will empower physicians and medical staff to better advocate for their patients, avoid preventable complications due to delayed treatment, and foster a more efficient, accountable healthcare system. ASCA remains committed to advancing policies that place patients’ needs first while promoting innovation, transparency and efficiency throughout the healthcare continuum.

Read the Senate bill and House bill for more information. Write David Opong-Wadee at dopongwadee@ascassociation.org with any questions.