A new study published in The American Journal of Managed Care has shed new light on racial and ethnic disparities in cancer care prior authorization decisions. Contrary to expectations, the research found no significant differences in the prior authorization process for Black and Hispanic patients compared to White patients.
The study, led by Dr. Benjamin Ukert of Elevance Health’s Public Policy Institute, analyzed data from 18,041 commercially insured patients diagnosed with cancer between 2017 and 2020. Researchers examined the time between diagnosis and prior authorization submission, as well as denial rates across different racial and ethnic groups.
Surprisingly, Asian patients experienced more favorable outcomes, with lower rates of prior authorization denials compared to White patients. The average denial rate was 10%, with Hispanic patients facing the highest rate at 12% and Black patients the lowest at 8%.
Dr. Ukert noted, “We observed no differences in the prior authorization process for Black and Hispanic patients with cancer and higher rates of prior authorization approvals for Asian patients compared with White patients.”
The study also revealed variations by cancer type and region. For instance, Asian and Black patients with prostate cancer had shorter wait times for prior authorization submission compared to White patients.
While these findings challenge previous assumptions about disparities in cancer care, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation. The study’s limitations, including its focus on a single insurer and self-reported racial data, highlight the complexity of healthcare equity issues.
As the medical community continues to address disparities in cancer treatment, this research provides valuable insights into the nuanced landscape of prior authorization processes and their impact on patient care across diverse populations.
See “Exploring Racial, Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Care Prior Authorization Decisions” (October 24, 2024)
