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What Is Prior Authorization and Why Does It Delay Your Medication?

Ever been told “your insurance still needs to approve it” — even after your doctor already sent the prescription?

That’s called prior authorization, and it’s one of the biggest reasons patients get stuck waiting for meds.

What Is Prior Authorization?

Prior authorization (PA) is when your insurance company requires extra paperwork to approve a medication, usually because it's expensive, new, or not the default option.

It means your provider or pharmacy has to prove it’s medically necessary before your insurance will cover it.

How SmartCare RX Handles It

We take that burden off your plate. As soon as we receive your prescription, we:

  • Contact your doctor
  • Submit all required documents to insurance
  • Follow up directly with insurers
  • Keep you updated
  • Suggest covered alternatives if needed

You don’t have to lift a finger.

We Help With the Cost, Too

PA delays often happen with high-cost medications. That’s why we also:

  • Look for copay cards
  • Apply to patient assistance programs or foundations
  • Explore lower-cost alternatives like compounded meds

You can read more about this on our Cost Reduction Programs page.

Bottom Line?

We don’t let paperwork delay your care.
We know how to navigate the system and we’ll do it for you.

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