The Consequences of Removing Prior Authorization for Buprenorphine in Medicaid-Building an Evidence Base

This commentary focused on a study that used Medicaid data to measure changes in buprenorphine prescribing after 2 states lifted prior authorization (PA) requirements for the medication. Featuring HIP Investigator Dr. Maguerite Burns, this Invited Commentary aimed to add context to help guide those engaging in this urgently needed work within Medicaid programs and populations. In the context of the the aforementioned study, there may be important insights gained by understanding the ostensible rationale that state officials have for imposing utilization management on buprenorphine. The authors of this commentary emphasize better evidence will make for better advocacy, and ultimately better health for Medicaid enrollees.