This expansion builds on the success of the initial roll-out, with almost 25% of eligible members receiving a bundled prior authorization, assuring their services have been approved in advance to accelerate their access to care.

On average, Aetna saw that providers were submitting four separate prior authorizations for each member in need of cancer treatments2. By offering a single, secure prior authorization for a bundle of cancer treatments, Aetna is helping patients access care simply throughout their treatment journey. Prior authorization bundles combine medical oncology, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy where appropriate, and/or radiation oncology services with associated high-tech imaging needs, such as MRI or CT scans, into one request submitted through a single portal.

"A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming for patients and families, and the care team should be focused on their patient, not paperwork," said Katerina Guerraz, Aetna Chief Operating Officer and President of Medicaid. "By approving a broader set of treatments and related services upfront, we're removing barriers that can delay care. Oncologists have the flexibility to make care decisions as treatment plans evolve, and individuals can focus on what matters most: their health, recovery, and time with their loved ones."

Administrative burden remains a significant challenge for healthcare providers. According to the latest Aetna Provider Survey, 74% of providers identified administrative burden as the top challenge facing clinical staff today, and nearly one-third (31%) cited prior authorization management as the single largest contributor.

By reducing this burden, Aetna can help clinicians unlock more time for patient care. In fact, 30% of Aetna Provider Survey respondents believed they could save more than an hour and 80% expect to save more than 30 minutes daily on administrative tasks through technology solutions such as bundles. 

Aetna expects to expand eligibility to Medicare and Commercial members in the first half of 2027.

  1. Providers in OK, IL, MD, NJ, VA, FL, KY, WV that utilize the Eviti portal to submit prior authorizations.
  2. Aetna Data Sciences