Modern Healthcare: Two states question Aetna’s prior-authorization practices amid CVS merger

“… So while Aetna’s pre-authorization processes don’t relate to the fundamentals of the merger, it could still affect the way state regulators see the tie-up. And if CVS, which has tried to project itself as a company committed to improving patient’s health, is looking for a reason to get out of the merger, this could be a good one, said Mark Pauly, professor of healthcare management at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. Pauly also pointed out that the former medical director’s admission may not be as bad as it sounds. Aetna serves more than 22 million members. It’s hard to see how the medical director could view each patient medical record for the thousands of requests for coverage Aetna likely receives.” Read more at Modern Healthcare.