Learning Center > Glossary-Terms > Preauthorization or Precertification

Preauthorization or Precertification

Preauthorization and precertification refer to a process when the health insurance company preapproves a covered person to receive a particular medical service or prescription drug. To preauthorize a service, the health insurance company may require that the provider submit a preauthorization request explaining the medical need. Precertification often is used to approve a hospital admission.

Note: These definitions are provided only to give you a general understanding of how these words are sometimes used by health insurance companies. Please refer to your coverage documents for a complete list of defined terms that apply to your specific coverage.
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