I had occasion to speak to the Prior Authorization Coordinator at one of my provider's offices yesterday. It was near the end of her workday and it was obvious that she was exhausted and frustrated, yet she was pleasant as could be.

After we concluded our business, I asked her how things were going and she told me "2025 has been a nightmare so far" saying medications and procedures that patients had been having for years were requiring prior authorization - even if they had not changed plans. And many were coming back "Denied" even when the patient met ALL criteria as I did. She said she spent the entire day yesterday filing appeals, and knew all would be granted in the end. She is worried, especially about many of her older patients, who are less savvy about the crazy new processes.

PS. This is even beginning to "bite" many of us who have traditional Medicare with a supplement.