In this episode of "Medical Matters Podcast," Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss Prior Authorization, the process by which a healthcare provider must obtain approval from the insurance provider. The Cleveland Clinic outlines the full definition here.

Through experience, the doctors outline the process of prior authorization. They further cite the so-called "hidden" and administrative costs.

Season 5 of the Medical Matters Podcast opens with an examination of life expectancy in the United States. Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick break down figures that confirm a record-high for both men and women in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released these numbers last week for the year 2024.

While deaths from illnesses such as coronavirus have decreased, there is also a strong decline in drug overdose deaths. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the US, followed by cancer and unintentional injuries.

The doctors also examine the availability of health insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. Further, the continued increase of flu cases, including Influenza-A are discussed.

In this episode of Medical Matters Podcast, Dr. Peter Brier and Nurse Practitioner Kelly McCormick discuss the potential for issues in the wake of the federal government shutdown. The doctors discuss the Affordable Care Act, benefits and drawbacks, along with the available providers and costs.

Medicare and Medicaid are also examined, and possible ways to make the programs more affordable and accessible to younger segments of the population.

In addition, a cautionary tale is offered about the dangers of not signing up for Social Security, Medicare and other available benefits.