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Bill

SB 602

Insurance; prior authorization and utilization review requirements for healthcare plans; reform

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sally Harrell and 4 co-sponsors

Georgia bill reforms prior authorization and utilization review requirements for health insurance plans to improve patient care access timelines and provider efficiency.

Senate Read and Referred
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Bill Summary · SB 602

Legislative bill overview

SB 602 reforms prior authorization and utilization review processes for healthcare plans in Georgia. The bill establishes requirements for how insurance companies must handle prior authorization requests and utilization reviews, likely aiming to streamline approval processes and reduce delays in patient care access.

Why is this important

Prior authorization delays can prevent patients from receiving timely medical treatment, sometimes resulting in worsened health outcomes. Healthcare providers spend significant administrative resources managing these processes, increasing costs. Reform in this area directly affects patient care timelines, provider workflow efficiency, and insurance company operations across Georgia.

Potential points of contention

  • Speed vs. fraud prevention: Faster approval processes may reduce utilization review rigor, potentially increasing claims costs and insurance premiums
  • Scope of reforms: Unclear whether reforms apply to all health plans or specific types, and what specific requirements are mandated (response timelines, appeal processes, etc.)
  • Implementation costs: Healthcare providers and insurers may face administrative expenses adapting to new prior authorization procedures and reporting requirements
  • Patient protections vs. insurer flexibility: Balancing stronger patient protections against insurance companies' ability to manage risk and costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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