S1 Ep61: Prior authorization with Heather Bassett, MD

Heather Bassett, MD, chief medical officer of Xsolis, joins the show to talk about prior authorizations and how artificial intelligence (AI) could change everything.

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Music Credits:
Lo-Fi ChillHop by Mit-Rich - stock.adobe.com
Relaxing Lounge by Classy Call me Man - stock.adobe.com
COCKTAIL by Mythical Audio - stock.adobe.com

Editor's note: Episode timestamps and transcript produced using AI tools.

Introduction to Prior Authorizations (00:00:00) 
Discussion on how prior authorizations can frustrate physicians.

Overview of the Podcast (00:00:09) 
Austin Littrell introduces the podcast and the speakers.

Pain Points in Prior Authorization (00:01:07) 
Dr. Heather Bassett outlines the major challenges physicians face in prior authorizations.

Current Use of Technology (00:03:11) 
Discussion on how technology is currently applied in the prior authorization process.

Potential of AI in Healthcare (00:05:56) 
Exploration of how AI could help alleviate administrative burdens in prior authorizations.

Concerns About Automation (00:08:04) 
Discussion on risks of over-relying on automation and potential complications.

Impact of AI on Denials (00:16:05) 
Analysis of how AI might reduce inappropriate denials in the prior authorization process.

Future of Prior Authorizations (00:19:06) 
Speculation on how prior authorizations may evolve over the next 5 to 10 years.

Physician Involvement in Technology Development (00:23:45) 
Encouragement for physicians to engage in the development of prior authorization technologies.

The Importance of Physician Involvement (00:25:27) 
Discussion on the need for physicians to engage in projects for their voices to be heard.

The Role of AI in Healthcare (00:26:31) 
Emphasis on the inevitability of AI's integration into healthcare and the importance of education.

Addressing Fears Surrounding AI (00:26:37) 
Highlighting misconceptions about AI replacing jobs and its potential to enhance physician work.

Recognizing AI's Benefits and Risks (00:27:55) 
Acknowledgment of AI's imperfections but its advantages over manual processes in healthcare.

Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments (00:28:49) 
Concluding thoughts and thanks from Todd Shryock and Austin Littrell for the discussion.