Humana will make a sweeping reduction in prior authorization, often called “preapproval,” requirements for outpatient services, the Fortune 100 company announced on July 22, 2025. One of the nation’s largest health insurers, Humana will eliminate approximately one-third of these mandates by January 1, 2026, aiming to expedite care, cut red tape for healthcare providers, and improve experiences for patients.
The insurer also said it is “committing to greater transparency on prior authorization” as the insurance industry faces mounting pressure to reform the controversial pre-approval protocols that have long frustrated patients and providers alike. Humana’s decision is poised to influence industrywide standards, having ripple effects for the broader U.S. healthcare system.
