The House Ways and Means Committee approved the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2026 with bipartisan support on July 15, aiming to address delays caused by prior authorization requirements in Medicare Advantage plans.
Willie Underwood, MD, MSc, MPH, president of the American Medical Association, said, “The House Ways and Means Committee’s overwhelming bipartisan approval today of the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2026 sends a clear message that more must be done to rein in health plans’ harmful prior authorization delays. This bipartisan legislation would streamline and standardize prior authorization requirements in Medicare Advantage. It also would require greater transparency as health plans would have to report their denial rates to the federal government. This bill would reduce administrative burdens on physicians while helping ensure seniors receive the care they need and when they need it.”
Underwood continued, “Today’s unanimous vote reflects growing recognition that prior authorization, when misused, too often stands between patients and their physicians. The AMA applauds the committee’s action and will continue working with Congress to ensure this legislation becomes law.”
The American Medical Association has influenced medical ethics and education standards across the United States through its governance structure featuring a Board of Trustees and a House of Delegates along with councils and committees. The organization represents physicians nationwide by partnering with over 190 state and specialty medical societies. It operates throughout the country, collaborating with these societies as well as other stakeholders to enhance health care delivery. The association has also advocated for reforms in Medicare payments and addressed physician burnout in efforts to improve patient care, according to the official website.
Next steps for the legislation include consideration by additional congressional committees before potentially advancing for full votes.