We extend our appreciation to Jon Patterson, R-Blue Springs, and Melanie Stinnett, R-Springfield, for their leadership and continued commitment to improving care for Missouri patients and providers.

Rep. Stinnett sponsored legislation aimed at modernizing prior authorization requirements by establishing a “gold” and “platinum” carding system for high-performing providers. The proposal would have reduced unnecessary delays and administrative burden for providers with a proven track record of appropriate care.

Speaker Patterson, a practicing surgeon, has been a strong advocate for addressing the growing administrative challenges facing clinicians and hospitals. Throughout session, he consistently emphasized the importance of allowing health care professionals to spend more time caring for patients and less time navigating paperwork.

The legislation advanced further than ever before, passing the Missouri House with overwhelming bipartisan support before stalling in the Senate during the final days of session.

While the final outcome was disappointing, the progress made this year reflects growing recognition that prior authorization reform is both a provider issue and a patient care issue.

Thank Rep. Stinnett and Speaker Patterson for their continued advocacy for Missouri patients, providers and communities.