Ep. 61: Prior authorization with Heather Bassett, MD

Author(s):

Heather Bassett, MD, chief medical officer of Xsolis, joins the show to talk prior authorizations and how technology may be able to help.

Heather Bassett, MD, chief medical officer of Xsolis, joins the show to discuss the prior authorization process and how artificial intelligence (AI) could change everything.

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Music Credits:
Lo-Fi ChillHop by Mit-Rich - stock.adobe.com
Relaxing Lounge by Classy Call me Man - stock.adobe.com
COCKTAIL by Mythical Audio - stock.adobe.com

Editor's note: Episode timestamps and transcript produced using AI tools.

Introduction to Prior Authorizations (00:00:00)
Discussion on how prior authorizations can frustrate physicians.

Overview of the Podcast (00:00:09)
Austin Littrell introduces the podcast and the speakers.

Pain Points in Prior Authorization (00:01:07)
Dr. Heather Bassett outlines the major challenges physicians face in prior authorizations.

Current Use of Technology (00:03:11)
Discussion on how technology is currently applied in the prior authorization process.

Potential of AI in Healthcare (00:05:56)
Exploration of how AI could help alleviate administrative burdens in prior authorizations.

Concerns About Automation (00:08:04)
Discussion on risks of over-relying on automation and potential complications.

Impact of AI on Denials (00:16:05)
Analysis of how AI might reduce inappropriate denials in the prior authorization process.

Future of Prior Authorizations (00:19:06)
Speculation on how prior authorizations may evolve over the next 5 to 10 years.

Physician Involvement in Technology Development (00:23:45)
Encouragement for physicians to engage in the development of prior authorization technologies.

The Importance of Physician Involvement (00:25:27)
Discussion on the need for physicians to engage in projects for their voices to be heard.

The Role of AI in Healthcare (00:26:31)
Emphasis on the inevitability of AI's integration into healthcare and the importance of education.

Addressing Fears Surrounding AI (00:26:37)
Highlighting misconceptions about AI replacing jobs and its potential to enhance physician work.

Recognizing AI's Benefits and Risks (00:27:55)
Acknowledgment of AI's imperfections but its advantages over manual processes in healthcare.

Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments (00:28:49)
Concluding thoughts and thanks from Todd Shryock and Austin Littrell for the discussion.