Comment on CMS-2026-1255-0001
American Pharmacists AssociationSupportAdvocacy
Summary: The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) supports the proposed rule to streamline prior authorization processes through standardized electronic transactions (NCPDP and FHIR standards) and improved transparency. They argue that these measures will reduce administrative burdens on pharmacists, decrease delays in patient treatment, and improve overall care coordination.
Dear Secretary Kennedy,
The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) appreciates the opportunity to provide HHS and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) comments on the “Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs for Medicare Advantage Organizations, Medicaid Managed Care Plans, State Medicaid Agencies, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agencies and CHIP Managed Care Entities, and Issuers of Qualified Health Plans on the Federally-Facilitated Exchanges,” proposed rule.
APhA represents pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians in all practice settings, including but not limited to community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, community health centers, physician offices, ambulatory clinics, managed care organizations, hospice settings, and government facilities. Our members strive to improve medication use, advance patient care, and enhance public health.
Full comments are attached.