Health Podcast Library
Season 1Episode 379

A Closer Look at a Widely Despised Health Insurance Policy

May 28, 2026
28:37

Episode Description

Every year, millions of people’s medical care runs into the roadblock known as prior authorization, which requires an insurer to sign off before chemotherapy, surgery or countless other services can proceed. Who does this often onerous process help, who does it hurt and how could it work better for everyone?


Guests:

Tom Roberts, Oncologist, Mass General Cancer Center

Aaron Schwartz, Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy and Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania

Kathleen, Caregiver


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