Which PA channel yields the fastest decision times?

• A. Telephone-based PA.
• B. Paper mail submission.
• C. Electronic prior authorization.
• D. Fax-based submission.

Answer: (C)

Electronic prior authorization is fastest because it fits directly into the prescribing workflow and uses standardized, structured data to transmit the request to the payer’s system. This enables real-time or near-real-time determinations in many cases, with automatic checks of patient eligibility, formulary status, and required clinical information. The process minimizes manual data entry and back-and-forth communication, so decisions arrive quickly.

In contrast, telephone-based PA relies on staff time to collect information, route calls, and await a reviewer’s decision, which can slow things down. Paper mail involves postal delays and manual handling, adding days to weeks in some cases. Fax-based submissions still require manual review and can be hampered by incomplete forms or missing information, delaying the determination.

So, the channel that leverages electronic data exchange and automated workflows typically yields the fastest decision times.