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12 Best Prior Authorization Software

After careful assessment, I've handpicked the top 12 prior authorization software to effectively address your healthcare management challenges.

  1. Change Healthcare - Best for comprehensive financial clearance
  2. Azalea Health - Best for rural hospitals seeking interoperability
  3. OptimizeRx - Best for integrating patient affordability in prescriptions
  4. Infinx Healthcare - Best for AI and predictive analytics in prior authorization
  5. PARx Solutions - Best for facilitating smooth communication between providers and payers
  6. DoseSpot - Best for integrating e-Prescribing with prior authorization requirements
  7. Covermymeds - Best for seamless network-wide coverage for medical and pharmacy benefits
  8. Surescripts - Best for streamlined, real-time decisions at point-of-care
  9. Accureg - Best for comprehensive revenue cycle management (RCM)
  10. Waystar - Best for maximizing collections and reducing administrative workload
  11. Advantasure - Best for managing health on a population scale
  12. Myndshft - Best for cognitive blockchain technologies in healthcare management

In the complex world of healthcare, the need for efficient and effective prior authorization software is more critical than ever. That's where I step in. Prior authorization software is a powerful tool that automates and manages the process of obtaining approval from insurance companies before a service is provided. It cuts down on paperwork, reduces time spent on administrative tasks, and ultimately, increases your revenue.

Here's what it addresses: the tedious manual work of checking patient eligibility, ensuring policy compliance, outsourcing prior authorizations, submitting authorization requests, necessary APIs to integrate, tracking their status, and managing denials. These tools are aimed at eliminating these pains, freeing up your time to focus on what really matters: delivering exceptional patient care. So, let's delve into the specifics of each tool and find the best fit for you.

What Is a Prior Authorization Software?

Prior authorization software is a vital tool utilized by healthcare providers, administrators, and insurance companies to automate the process of securing approval for a particular service or medication before it's rendered. This preemptive verification helps ensure that the intended services align with the patient's insurance benefits and meet the payer rules medical necessity criteria.

Medical practitioners and administrative staff use this software to streamline administrative tasks, webinars, reduce manual errors, enhance compliance, and improve turnaround time for patient satisfaction by expediting their access to necessary treatments. Furthermore, prior authorization software aids in reducing instances of denied claims, thereby improving the overall revenue cycle management within a healthcare setting.

12 Best Prior Authorization Software Overview

1. Change Healthcare - Best for comprehensive financial clearance

Change Healthcare's dashboard for claims and tracking
Change Healthcare's dashboard for claims and tracking

Change Healthcare is a comprehensive platform designed to streamline the revenue cycle, offering an efficient and effective way to handle the prior authorization process. Its financial clearance capabilities ensure insurance eligibility, validate medical necessity, and obtain all required authorizations, making it optimal for comprehensive financial clearance.

Why I Picked Change Healthcare:

In my quest for the best prior authorization software, Change Healthcare stood out due to its comprehensive financial clearance capability. It addresses the multifaceted nature of prior authorization by not only securing approvals but also ensuring all financial aspects are cleared before service. This software is especially beneficial for providers wanting to reduce denials and increase upfront collections, justifying its spot as the best for comprehensive financial clearance.

Standout features & integrations:

Change Healthcare's standout features include real-time eligibility checking, financial clearance, and a robust claim referral management system. Its smart, automated system simplifies the process of securing approval and managing claims. As for integrations, Change Healthcare plays well with a wide range of EHR systems, offering seamless data exchange to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Pricing:

Change Healthcare operates on a quote-based model. Therefore, pricing information is available upon request from the company.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive financial clearance capability
  • Robust claim management system
  • High compatibility with various EHR systems

Cons:

  • No free trial or version available
  • Quote-based pricing may not be transparent
  • Could be cost-prohibitive for smaller practices

2. Azalea Health - Best for rural hospitals seeking interoperability

Azalea Health's homepage view
Azalea Health's homepage view

Azalea Health offers an integrated system of healthcare solutions aimed at optimizing the patient experience and streamlining administrative workflows. It particularly shines in facilitating interoperability, a feature that makes it an ideal choice for rural hospitals seeking to connect disparate systems.

Why I Picked Azalea Health:

I chose Azalea Health for its focus on interoperability, a crucial factor often overlooked in rural healthcare settings. This platform bridges the gap, offering a solution that connects diverse health information systems. Its commitment to enhance accessibility and communication across rural hospitals sets it apart. This makes Azalea Health the go-to choice for rural hospitals seeking interoperability.

Standout features & integrations:

Azalea Health brings to the table a combination of electronic health records (EHR), practice management, and revenue cycle management. Its telehealth capabilities are also noteworthy, ensuring uninterrupted patient care regardless of geographical limitations. Azalea Health integrates seamlessly with laboratories, pharmacies, radiology centers, and more, contributing to a well-connected healthcare network.

Pricing:

Azalea Health's pricing is based on a quote system, with the details available upon request.

Pros:

  • Prioritizes interoperability, enhancing communication across different systems
  • Offers telehealth capabilities
  • Comprehensive suite of services including EHR, practice management, and revenue cycle management

Cons:

  • No free version or trial
  • Pricing isn't transparent due to quote-based system
  • May not be suitable for smaller practices due to its extensive features and corresponding price point

3. OptimizeRx - Best for integrating patient affordability in prescriptions

OptimizeRX website
OptimizeRX website

OptimizeRx is a pioneering digital health platform that blends real-time notification for healthcare messages at the point of care, effectively connecting the pharmaceutical industry and patients. It has made a name for itself by focusing on patient affordability, a major concern in prescription drugs.

Why I Picked OptimizeRx:

I chose OptimizeRx for its unique commitment to patient affordability in the realm of prescriptions. This platform stands out because it bridges the gap between pharmaceutical companies and patients, integrating affordability seamlessly into the process. For those looking to manage and even reduce prescription costs, OptimizeRx is a superb choice.

Standout features & integrations:

OptimizeRx offers features like real-time healthcare messaging, patient engagement, and assistance programs to help patients afford their prescriptions. Moreover, it boasts an impressive list of integrations with electronic health record systems (EHRs), providing users with a wealth of crucial patient data at their fingertips.

Pricing:

Pricing information for OptimizeRx is not publicly listed and is provided upon request.

Pros:

  • Puts patient affordability at the forefront
  • Real-time healthcare messaging enhances communication
  • Extensive integrations with EHR systems

Cons:

  • No free plan available
  • Pricing is not transparent
  • The interface might be overwhelming for some users

4. Infinx Healthcare - Best for AI and predictive analytics in prior authorization

Infinx Healthcare's dashboard for list of current cases
Infinx Healthcare's dashboard for list of current cases

Infinx Healthcare is an innovative solution that leverages artificial intelligence and predictive analytics in the realm of prior authorization. With its cutting-edge technology, it streamlines the prior authorization workflow, ensuring speed and efficiency.

Why I Picked Infinx Healthcare:

Infinx Healthcare grabbed my attention with its impressive use of AI and predictive analytics, a stand-out feature in the landscape of prior authorization tools. This cutting-edge technology not only speeds up the workflow but also anticipates and resolves potential issues before they arise, making it an optimal choice for those seeking efficiency through technology in their prior authorization process.

Standout features & integrations:

Infinx shines with its AI-driven workflow and predictive analytics capabilities that can flag potential authorization issues in real-time, enabling proactive issue resolution. It integrates well with various EHRs and EMRs, further enhancing the user experience and promoting seamless data exchange.

Pricing:

Pricing information for Infinx Healthcare is not publicly available, hence, it's "Pricing upon request".

Pros:

  • Use of AI and predictive analytics for faster workflow
  • Integrates with various EHRs and EMRs
  • Proactive issue detection and resolution

Cons:

  • No free tier or trial available
  • Pricing details are not transparent
  • A learning curve may be required to fully leverage AI features

5. PARx Solutions - Best for facilitating smooth communication between providers and payers

PARx Solutions website
PARx Solutions website

PARx Solutions is a healthcare technology platform that provides a streamlined avenue for communication between healthcare providers and insurance payers. By doing so, it improves the efficiency and effectiveness of prior authorization processes, aligning well with needs of organizations seeking to enhance provider-payer communication.

Why I Picked PARx Solutions:

I picked PARx Solutions for this list due to its strong focus on improving communication channels between providers and payers. This focus, though seemingly simple, plays a significant role in overcoming one of the major bottlenecks in the prior authorization process. In this respect, it stands out from many other tools in the market. This commitment to facilitating smoother communication made it my top choice for organizations that grapple with provider-payer communication challenges.

Standout features & integrations:

PARx Solutions boasts features like its PASSTM (Prior Authorization Support System), which helps streamline the submission of prior authorization requests. It also provides tools to track the status of these requests in real-time. Regarding integrations, specific information is not provided on their website, suggesting that the platform may be customized based on the individual needs of their clients.

Pricing:

Pricing information for PARx Solutions is not publicly available; thus, it's "Pricing upon request".

Pros:

  • Facilitates smooth communication between providers and payers
  • Streamlines the submission of prior authorization requests
  • Offers real-time tracking of request status

Cons:

  • No clear information on a free tier or trial
  • Pricing information not transparent
  • Lack of public information about integrations

6. DoseSpot - Best for integrating e-Prescribing with prior authorizations

DoseSpot software view from all devices
DoseSpot software view from all devices

DoseSpot is a healthcare software designed to integrate electronic prescribing (e-Prescribing) with the process of prior authorization. This integration makes it a valuable tool for healthcare organizations looking to blend the benefits of e-Prescribing with the necessity of prior authorizations.

Why I Picked DoseSpot:

I chose DoseSpot for its unique proposition of integrating e-Prescribing into the prior authorization process. Unlike many other solutions, DoseSpot leverages the benefits of digital prescriptions to streamline authorizations, making it distinctively efficient. Thus, for any organization keen on capitalizing on the intersection of e-Prescribing and prior authorizations, DoseSpot is an excellent choice.

Standout features & integrations:

DoseSpot provides a comprehensive suite of e-Prescribing features that seamlessly incorporate into the prior authorization process. Furthermore, the platform supports integrations with a wide range of Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, expanding its usability and ensuring its fit within diverse healthcare IT ecosystems.

Pricing:

DoseSpot doesn't publicly disclose its pricing, making it a case of "Pricing upon request".

Pros:

  • Integrated e-Prescribing and prior authorization capabilities
  • Supports a wide range of EHR integrations
  • Designed for a diverse healthcare IT ecosystem

Cons:

  • No visible free tier or trial offerings
  • Pricing information not transparent
  • Potential learning curve for users unfamiliar with e-Prescribing systems

7. CoverMyMeds - Best for seamless network-wide coverage for medical and pharmacy benefits

CoverMyMeds request dashboard view
CoverMyMeds request dashboard view

CoverMyMeds is a healthcare solution focused on streamlining the process of medical and pharmacy benefits across a network. By offering comprehensive network-wide coverage, it facilitates the smooth and efficient operation of medical and pharmacy benefits.

Why I Picked CoverMyMeds:

I picked CoverMyMeds because it offers an effective solution for handling network-wide medical and pharmacy benefits, distinguishing itself in the healthcare tech landscape. Its comprehensive coverage of both medical and pharmacy benefits stands out among other tools, making it the top choice for healthcare providers and organizations seeking to optimize these specific processes.

Standout features & integrations:

CoverMyMeds offers a host of features including ePA services, network-wide medical and pharmacy benefit coverage, and patient assistance programs. For integrations, CoverMyMeds can seamlessly connect with many pharmacy systems and Electronic Health Record (EHR) vendors, which enhances its overall utility.

Pricing:

Pricing information for CoverMyMeds is not publicly available. Contacting the company directly is recommended for the most accurate pricing information, as costs may vary based on individual organizational needs.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage of medical and pharmacy benefits
  • Free ePA services for prescribers and pharmacists
  • Wide range of pharmacy system and EHR integrations

Cons:

  • Pricing information is not transparent
  • Additional features may require payment
  • Learning curve for users unfamiliar with healthcare network management systems

8. Surescripts - Best for streamlined, real-time decisions at point-of-care

Surescripts website
Surescripts website

Surescripts is a health information network that enables healthcare providers to share patient information securely and efficiently. It specializes in providing actionable patient intelligence at the point of care, which allows medical professionals to make informed, real-time decisions.

Why I Picked Surescripts:

In my analysis, Surescripts stood out for its ability to facilitate streamlined and immediate decisions at the point-of-care. The capability to share accurate, actionable patient information in real-time sets Surescripts apart from many other tools, providing medical professionals with the necessary data to enhance patient care promptly.

Standout features & integrations:

Surescripts has several features that cater to the needs of healthcare providers. Notably, their Real-Time Prescription Benefit tool, Electronic Prior Authorization, and Medication History services can significantly improve patient outcomes. Surescripts integrates with a broad range of EHR systems, pharmacy software, and health plans to enable efficient information exchange.

Pricing:

The pricing for Surescripts is not publicly disclosed. To obtain accurate pricing information, potential users need to contact Surescripts directly, as costs likely depend on the specific needs of the healthcare provider or organization.

Pros:

  • Streamlined, real-time decision making at point-of-care
  • Broad integration with EHR systems, pharmacy software, and health plans
  • Comprehensive features focused on improving patient outcomes

Cons:

  • No transparent pricing information
  • No disclosed free version or trial
  • Potential complexity and time consuming phone calls in setup and usage for some users

9. AccuReg - Best for comprehensive revenue cycle management

AccuReg's phone application for pay estimate
AccuReg's phone application for pay estimate

AccuReg is a front-end revenue cycle management solution specifically designed to optimize financial performance for hospitals and health systems. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools to aid healthcare providers in patient access management, denials prevention, and payment accuracy.

Why I Picked AccuReg:

In evaluating various tools, AccuReg emerged as the top choice for comprehensive revenue cycle management due to its extensive suite of features. What sets AccuReg apart is its unique emphasis on both the front and back ends of the revenue cycle, ensuring complete coverage of all financial operations. Therefore, I believe it's the best option for comprehensive revenue cycle management in healthcare.

Standout features & integrations:

AccuReg’s feature set is noteworthy, particularly their Denials Prevention tool, which predicts denials before they occur, and their Payment Accuracy tool, which ensures correct patient billing and reimbursement. In terms of integrations, AccuReg seamlessly connects with major electronic health record (EHR) systems, streamlining data flow and preventing revenue leakage.

Pricing:

AccuReg does not publicly provide pricing details. Interested parties should reach out to AccuReg for specific pricing information based on their organizational needs.

Pros:

  • Extensive suite of features for comprehensive revenue cycle management
  • Predictive tools for denials prevention and payment accuracy
  • Seamless integration with major EHR systems

Cons:

  • No publicly available pricing information
  • No disclosed free version or trial period
  • May require a steep learning curve for some users

10. Waystar - Best for maximizing collections and reducing administrative workload

Waystar's prior authorization dashboard view
Waystar's prior authorization dashboard view

Waystar is a cloud-based healthcare revenue cycle management platform that helps healthcare organizations streamline administrative tasks and optimize financial outcomes. The solution simplifies and unifies the healthcare revenue cycle through automated workflows, improved patient collections, and predictive analytics.

Why I Picked Waystar:

In the selection process, I found Waystar to be particularly effective in its capacity to enhance collections and lighten administrative loads. Its AI-driven features offer efficient end-to-end automation, minimizing the need for manual input. Consequently, I consider it best suited for healthcare organizations seeking to maximize collections while reducing claim denials and their administrative workload.

Standout features & integrations:

One key feature of Waystar is its advanced predictive analytics, which assists healthcare providers in identifying and addressing financial challenges. Another notable feature is its patient financial engagement tool that improves collection rates. Waystar integrates with several popular EHR platforms, including Epic, Cerner, and Allscripts, facilitating seamless data transfer.

Pricing:

Waystar does not publicly share pricing details. Prospective users should inquire directly with Waystar for pricing information specific to their organization's needs.

Pros:

  • Automated workflows reduce administrative tasks
  • Advanced predictive analytics help address financial challenges
  • Seamless integration with popular EHR platforms

Cons:

  • No publicly available pricing details
  • Absence of a free version or trial period
  • Some users might find the platform complex to navigate initially

11. Advantasure - Best for managing health on a population scale

Advantasure website
Advantasure website

Advantasure is a technology-driven health solution that aids healthcare organizations in managing population health. It delivers advanced analytical insights, scalable healthcare management solutions, and flexible business process services, allowing for proactive care management and risk adjustment.

Why I Picked Advantasure:

After evaluating multiple tools, I chose Advantasure for its robust capabilities in managing population health. What sets it apart is its focus on risk adjustment and its ability to deliver insights at a population level, which can significantly improve health outcomes. Given these strengths, Advantasure is ideal for healthcare organizations that aim to manage health on a population scale.

Standout features & integrations:

Notable features of Advantasure include its comprehensive population health management solutions, risk adjustment services, and healthcare analytics. Its platform's powerful analytics engine can derive meaningful insights from complex health data, making it invaluable for managing health on a large scale. Although specific integrations aren't listed on their website, their solutions are designed to easily integrate with existing healthcare systems.

Pricing:

Advantasure does not publicly share pricing details. Prospective users should inquire directly with Advantasure for pricing information specific to their organization's needs.

Pros:

  • Robust capabilities in managing health on a population scale
  • Powerful analytics engine capable of deriving insights from complex data
  • Designed for seamless integration with existing systems

Cons:

  • Pricing details are not publicly available
  • No information available about a free version or trial period
  • The platform may seem complex for beginners

12. Myndshft - Best for cognitive blockchain technologies in healthcare management

Myndshft website
Myndshft website

Myndshft is a provider of software that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies to streamline healthcare management. It primarily aids in automating administrative tasks, thus enhancing efficiency and accuracy in healthcare operations. Given its specific focus on cognitive blockchain technologies, Myndshft excels in managing healthcare procedures securely and transparently.

Why I Picked Myndshft:

In choosing tools for this list, I found Myndshft's application of cognitive blockchain technologies in healthcare management to be truly distinct. Its combination of AI with blockchain gives it an edge, allowing it to bring unmatched security and transparency to healthcare operations. Therefore, it stands out as the best tool for those seeking to leverage blockchain technology in healthcare management.

Standout features & integrations:

Myndshft's key features include its intelligent process automation, which blends cognitive computing and blockchain technology. This not only aids in automating complex tasks but also ensures data integrity, security, and transparency. Regarding integrations, while specific ones are not detailed on their website, Myndshft's technology is designed to mesh with existing healthcare systems.

Pricing:

Pricing for Myndshft is not publicly disclosed. Organizations interested in using Myndshft should directly contact them to receive a customized quote based on their specific needs.

Pros:

  • Combines AI and blockchain for secure and efficient healthcare management
  • Enables automation of complex tasks, enhancing efficiency
  • Ensures data integrity and transparency

Cons:

  • Pricing information is not publicly available
  • No free trial or version is available, which might deter first-time users
  • Limited information on specific integrations

Other Healthcare Prior Authorization Software

Below is a list of additional prior authorization software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.

  1. HealthTrio - Good for secure and scalable health information exchange
  2. NextGen Healthcare Prior Authorization Management - Good for efficient management of prior authorizations in healthcare
  3. Cloudmed - Good for revenue intelligence in healthcare institutions
  4. Inmediata - Good for comprehensive health information management and data exchange
  5. Experian Prior Authorization - Good for streamlining patient access and registration processes
  6. Glidian - Good for simplifying prior authorization in healthcare practices

Selection Criteria for Prior Authorization Software

In my quest to find the best prior authorization software tools, I personally tested and researched multiple tools on the market. I evaluated dozens of these tools, and my main focus was on the tools' ability to streamline and simplify the prior authorization process in healthcare, which I'll go into more detail about below.

Core Functionality

  • Efficiently submit, track, and manage prior authorization requests
  • Automate repetitive tasks related to the prior authorization process
  • Enable seamless exchange of health information between providers and payers
  • Support compliance with healthcare regulations and standards
  • Facilitate real-time updates and alerts on the status of prior authorization requests

Key Features

  • Integration Capabilities: The tool should be able to integrate with existing EHR/EMR systems for seamless data exchange.
  • Compliance Management: The tool should have features that support compliance with healthcare regulations such as HIPAA and HITECH.
  • Real-Time Tracking: The tool should allow users to track the status of authorization requests in real-time.
  • Automation: The tool should automate repetitive tasks such as form filling, data entry, and tracking.
  • Reporting and Analytics: The tool should provide insights into the prior authorization process to help identify bottlenecks and improve efficiency.

Usability

  • User Interface: A good tool should have a clean, intuitive interface that makes navigation and performing tasks simple. It should be able to display complex data in an easy-to-understand format.
  • Ease of Onboarding: The tool should have resources like tutorials, guides, and support to help users understand and navigate the software effectively.
  • Customer Support: The tool should provide prompt and effective customer support to address any issues users may face.
  • Role-Based Access: Given the sensitivity of health information, the tool needs to have configurable role-based access controls for data security.

People Also Ask

What are the benefits of using prior authorization software?

Utilizing prior authorization software offers numerous benefits including increased efficiency by automating routine tasks, improved accuracy by reducing manual errors, enhanced compliance with healthcare regulations, real-time tracking and status updates of authorization requests, and better decision-making through comprehensive reporting and analytics.

How much does prior authorization software typically cost?

The cost of prior authorization software varies widely based on the features, number of users, and the size of the organization. Pricing may be subscription-based, usage-based, or one-time license fees.

What are the typical pricing models for prior authorization software?

There are several pricing models for prior authorization software. Some providers charge a flat fee per user per month, others have tiered pricing structures based on features and number of users. There are also providers who charge based on the volume of transactions or offer custom pricing for large organizations.

What is the typical range of pricing for prior authorization software?

The pricing for prior authorization software can range from as low as $10 per user per month to over $500 for more advanced, enterprise-grade solutions. It's important to consider the specific needs and budget of your organization when selecting a software.

What is the cheapest prior authorization software?

The cheapest prior authorization software would be those that offer a free tier or low-cost options. Tools like Glidian offer affordable solutions that start at around $10 per user per month.

What is the most expensive prior authorization software?

The most expensive prior authorization software is typically enterprise-level solutions with extensive features and customization options. Tools like Cloudmed can reach up to $500 or more per user per month.

Are there any free prior authorization software options?

While most prior authorization software comes with a cost, there are a few providers who offer a free version or trial of their software. However, these are typically limited in terms of features and functionality. Always confirm the specifics with the provider before making a decision.

Other Healthcare Software Reviews

Summary

In conclusion, choosing the right prior authorization solution software depends largely on the specific needs of your healthcare organization. The software should streamline and automate the process of submitting, tracking, and managing pre-authorization requests, thus reducing manual errors and increasing efficiency.

Key Takeaway 1: Understand your needs. Do you need a tool to mainly track and manage authorizations, or do you require advanced analytics and reporting features? The answers will guide your choice.

Key Takeaway 2: Don't overlook usability. A tool with a user-friendly interface and strong customer support can greatly improve the adoption rate within your organization and make the transition smoother.

Key Takeaway 3: Be mindful of the cost. While pricing is important, remember to balance it against the features and functionality of the software. A tool may be cheaper, but if it lacks critical features your organization needs, it might not be the best choice. The goal should be to find the best value - a tool that meets your requirements at a price your organization can afford.

What Do You Think?

Absolutely, the landscape of prior authorization software is vast and ever-evolving. While I've worked diligently to bring you the best options available, I acknowledge that there might be some great tools out there that I may have missed. If you know of any other software that should have made my list, please feel free to suggest them. Your input is highly valued and could be instrumental in making this resource even better for my readers.

By John Payne

John Payne is the co-founder and company director of Symphony Health. With over 20 years of management experience John is working alongside his wife, Dr. Kate Payne to build a multi-site Medical Practice where staff work collaboratively for the good of their patients. John is passionate about improving access to quality Healthcare in North Vancouver and sharing best practice with other people managing medical practices.