What's Happening?
Surescripts has significantly expanded its Prior Authorization Automation solution, increasing the number of enabled clinicians by 50% since December 2025, reaching 68,000 prescribers across 42 major health systems. This expansion aims to streamline the prescription
approval process, reducing the median approval time to just 18 seconds when clinical criteria are met. The automation bypasses traditional manual processes, such as forms and faxes, and integrates directly with Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems. This development is part of a broader effort to address the declining accessibility of healthcare, as only 55% of Americans can afford basic healthcare and medications. The new system has already saved patients $19.7 million from January to April 2026, with significant savings per prescription.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Surescripts' automation tools is crucial in addressing the inefficiencies and high costs associated with the traditional prior authorization process. By reducing approval times and increasing transparency in prescription costs, the system helps alleviate the financial burden on patients and improves medication adherence. This is particularly important as healthcare affordability continues to decline in the U.S. The integration of such technology could lead to better health outcomes by ensuring timely access to necessary medications, thus reducing the rate of prescription abandonment and improving patient satisfaction.
What's Next?
As the new CMS Interoperability and Prior Authorization proposed rule (CMS-0062-P) looms, the adoption of Surescripts' tools is expected to accelerate. The expansion of the platform to support more medications and the continued integration with EHR systems will likely enhance its effectiveness. The healthcare industry may see further innovations in automation and real-time data sharing, potentially leading to broader systemic changes in how prescriptions are managed and approved.
