Hmmm, who does the doctor work for? Think again. They may not have much of a choice.

When patients are suffering from life-threatening illnesses or debilitating health conditions, the only thing that should matter is delivering appropriate evidence-based treatments in a timely manner. For that, patients rightly turn to us — their trusted physicians — for expert guidance on the best course of action. Yet, all too often, insurers insert themselves into the equation. As a result, restrictive policies like prior authorization can interfere with patient care — and lead to dangerous and painful outcomes.

Barbara Jung, MD, and Deborah Dyett Desir, MD