CMS adds electronic prior authorization pledge to Health Tech Ecosystem, targets $15B in savings

CMS has formally incorporated an electronic prior authorization pledge into its Health Tech Ecosystem, signaling a renewed push for digital PA adoption across Medicare and Medicaid. The agency projects up to $15 billion in savings, primarily from reduced administrative burden in nursing homes and other care settings. This follows CMS's proposed rules to standardize PA processes. While no immediate mandate is in place, the move indicates CMS will prioritize vendors and plans that adopt digital PA. Practices should evaluate whether their current EHR and clearinghouse partners are committing to the CMS ecosystem's standards, as future CMS contracting may favor those who do.