Prior Authorization Is Not a Clinical Tool

Prior authorization functions as a cost-containment lever, not a clinical safety mechanism. The evidence base from Hawaiʻi providers.

Prior authorization functions as a cost-containment lever, not a clinical safety mechanism. The evidence base from Hawaiʻi providers.

Key findings

• Prior authorization is structurally a cost-control instrument, not a clinical safeguard.
• Documented patient harm patterns from delayed and denied medically necessary care.
• Hawaiʻi providers report disproportionate administrative burden relative to clinical benefit.

Suggested citation: Hawaiʻi Healthcare Task Force. (2026). Prior Authorization Is Not a Clinical Tool. https://hawaiihealthcaretaskforce.org/reports/prior-authorization-not-clinical-tool

Authors: David Isei