How Trump’s ‘Prior Authorization’ Deal Puts Patients Ahead of Paperwork

National Review

by Sally C. Pipes

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Trump administration has announced a new initiative aimed at accelerating the prior authorization process for medical treatments, which could significantly benefit patients by reducing delays and bureaucratic hurdles. This policy change is designed to streamline insurer approval processes, allowing doctors and patients to receive necessary care more efficiently. By cutting down on unnecessary paperwork and red tape, the move seeks to prioritize patient outcomes over administrative obstacles. Prior authorization requires insurers to approve specific treatments or procedures before they can be administered, a process that has often been criticized for causing delays in treatment. These delays can be particularly problematic for patients facing time-sensitive medical needs. The new policy aims to address these concerns by establishing clearer guidelines and expediting the approval process, potentially reducing wait times by several weeks or more in some cases. This initiative aligns with the Trump administration's broader push to reform healthcare by reducing costs and increasing access to care. By simplifying the authorization process, the administration is targeting one of the most frustrating aspects of the current system for both providers and patients. While details of the exact implementation are still being finalized, the move has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders in the healthcare industry. Critics argue that rushing approvals could lead to safety risks or financial losses for insurers, while supporters highlight the potential benefits for patient care. The administration maintains that this approach will ultimately lower costs and improve outcomes by ensuring that patients receive the treatments they need without unnecessary delays. As the policy is rolled out, its success will depend on how effectively it balances efficiency with safeguards to protect against potential downsides. Overall, Trump’s 'Prior Authorization' deal represents a significant step toward addressing a long-standing issue in healthcare administration. By focusing on patient-centered outcomes and reducing bureaucratic barriers, this initiative could set a precedent for future reforms aimed at making the system more efficient and responsive to the needs of both providers and patients.

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Originally published on National Review on 2/22/2026