THE RAATZ ROUNDUP
Submitted for use on July 22, 2025
Word Count: 325
It is imperative that Hoosiers have access to the best quality health insurance available. When they are making decisions about their medical needs, one of the most important influences should be a licensed medical practitioner – not an employee working for an insurance company.
However, in recent years, insurance companies have often been the ones controlling a patient's health care needs through a process known as prior authorization.
Prior authorization was originally intended to prevent waste, fraud and abuse of the health care system, but the process is now misused by insurance companies delaying or even denying access to health care. According to a 2024 survey, 93% of doctors say prior authorization sometimes leads to delay in care, and 82% say prior authorization sometimes leads patients to abandon recommended care.
Hoosiers should have faith in their insurance providers that they will have access to health care when they need it.
That is why this year, I co-authored Senate Enrolled Act 480, which requires prior authorization decisions to be made by licensed medical practitioners who know the medical field. The bill also prevents prior authorization from being used as an excuse to deny reasonable claims.
This bill not only ensures Hoosiers are getting access to the health care they need, but it also speeds up the process for prior authorization, so they are receiving that care in a timely manner.
The bill also requires health plans to be transparent about the requirements and restrictions of prior authorization, and to notify their customers of requirement changes at least 60 days before the change goes into effect.
Hoosiers need reliable health care, and SEA 480 ensures that they are getting the care they need in a timely manner.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by calling my office at 800-382-9467.
-30-
State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
