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Health Care, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech

Jul. 10, 2026

California's prior authorization remodel begins

California's new prior authorization law does more than limit insurers' use of prior authorization--it gives the Department of Health Care Services broad authority to determine when the practice is permitted.

Henry Norwood

Of Counsel
Kaufman Dolowich LLP

Phone: (628) 219-9814

Email: henry.norwood@kaufmandolowich.com

See more...

California's prior authorization remodel begins
Shutterstock

Prior authorizations--the requirement that an insured obtain their insurer's authorization to receive certain medical services before they are rendered--are considered both essential to combatting medically unnecessary treatment and an unnecessary burden, depending on who is asked. Providers and patients disfavor prior authorizations due to the administrative hurdles and potential delay imposed. Insurers favor prior authorizations as the practice allows the insurer time to re...

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