Summary
Medicare is starting a new test program that uses artificial intelligence to require prior approval for 17 medical services in six states. This program, called WISeR, aims to reduce unnecessary medical services and will affect about 6.4 million Americans on traditional Medicare. The pilot program will start on January 1, 2026, and last for six years.
Key Facts
- The new program requires prior approval for 17 specific health services using AI tools.
- WISeR will begin in Arizona, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Washington.
- It will apply only to people on traditional Medicare.
- The test aims to prevent unnecessary or inappropriate medical services.
- Critics worry that the review process might lead to delays or denied services.
- The program will run for six years starting from January 1, 2026.
- Approximately 6.4 million Americans on traditional Medicare live in these six states.
