In July 2021, Aetna implemented a policy stating that all cataract surgery procedures require prior authorization.
This resulted in delayed and canceled procedures while COVID-19-related delays were still wreaking havoc. Alice T. Epitropoulos, MD, discussed with Healio/OSN the implications of these restrictions and how they can be detrimental to patients.
Healio/OSN: Can you please detail the process of acquiring prior authorization?
Epitropoulos: Aetna is the third-largest health insurance company, and it issued a new prior authorization policy for cataract surgery, which more or less overrides