US health insurers plan to announce changes aimed at improving the preapproval process for medical care following public criticism after the killing of a UnitedHealth (UNH) executive last year, The Wall Street Journal reported Friday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The industry will pledge to simplify prior authorization by adopting a shared electronic standard by 2027, the report said.

Insurers aim to process 80% of electronic requests in real time by 2027, provided all required documents are submitted, the report said.

As part of the announcement expected next week, insurers will commit to having all denials reviewed by medical professionals, though the agreement may allow for AI involvement in the process, the report said.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

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