Prior authorization

Approval before the service. Delay is the most common failure mode.

Timing that matters

Standard decisions are commonly 7–15 days; expedited urgent decisions are typically 72 hours.

Step by step

1Confirm whether the service needs prior authorization before it is scheduled.
2Ask the clinic which staff member submits it and get their direct contact.
3Ask the plan for the decision deadline in writing — urgent requests move faster.
4If denied, request a peer-to-peer review between your clinician and the plan's medical director.

Before you move on

Write down who you spoke with, the date, and what they promised. A short dated note is the single most useful thing you can have if this issue has to be escalated later.

Ask Phoenix about this

Explain prior authorization in simple terms.What should I say when I call?What happens if they say no?

Educational purposes only

Phoenix Health Compass does not provide legal advice or medical advice. This content summarizes publicly available government and nonprofit resources and is cited throughout. Always confirm requirements, deadlines, and forms with the official agency.

Last reviewed 2026-08-01 by the Phoenix Health Compass editorial team.