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Prior Authorization Framework and Accreditation Program logo

New Developments in Prior Authorization and Specialty Drugs

Coming soon to your inbox! The Prior Authorization Framework and Accreditation (PAFA) Program, an exciting new development in the Canadian specialty drug landscape that will benefit patients, plan sponsors, and other prior authorization stakeholders, including payers.

Improving claims processes and practices for prior authorization (PA), sometimes called special authorization, is overdue. PAFA, a membership-funded Canadian nonprofit launching this Fall, is designed to engage PA stakeholders and recognize payers who implement efficiencies in PA without requiring them to compromise the proprietary aspects of PA.

The current paper-based PA claims process slows down claims preparation, submission and adjudication. Improving PA administration saves time for all stakeholders and patients receive their medications more quickly. When patients wait less time to start on medications, there is less presenteeism and time lost from work. Public payers in Ontario and British Columbia have adopted electronic prior authorization and are seeing the benefits.

The new PAFA Program includes membership for payers and non-payers, a prior authorization framework for payers, the opportunity for payer accreditation, and a chance to get involved. Advisors and plan sponsors will be able to familiarize themselves with the framework and know what to expect from payers, identify those payers who are members, and those who are accredited. Here is an overview:

  • Memberships will be available to private and public payers who commit to the four guiding principles of prior authorization. Once they are confident they meet the framework requirements, members can apply for accreditation in administration excellence or electronic prior authorization.
  • Associate memberships are available for all other stakeholders interested in change in the Canadian PA landscape. This includes advisors, plan sponsors, patient support programs, pharmaceutical manufacturers, physician groups, pharmacy groups, electronic prior authorization (ePA) vendors, and other healthcare-related organizations and associations.

Become a member or associate member and get involved! Members and associate members can get involved in PAFA by applying for a seat on the Framework and Accreditation Advisory Board. Associate members can also apply to sit on the Accreditation Panel.

Look out for the PAFA launch early this Fall!

Want to know more now, interested in membership or getting involved? Contact Denise Balch, executive director of PAFA at denisebalch@priorauthframework.ca or call 905 220 4260. You can also contact Denise through Simplify Prior Authorization or Connex Health.

Denise Balch
Project Manager, Simplify Prior Authorization
www.simplifypriorauth.ca
President, Connex Health Consulting
www.connexhc.com
905 220 4260
info@simplifypriorauth.ca

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