Improving Access to Care and Reducing Barriers for Patients 

The Nebraska Medical Association is committed to advocating for policies that improve health care for all Nebraskans. In 2025, NMA’s legislative priorities focus on two critical issues: reforming prior authorization and increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates. Together, these efforts will ensure timely, quality care for patients and support the physicians who serve our communities. 

Cutting Prior Authorization Red Tape for Better Care 

Prior authorization—the process insurance companies use to approve treatments—too often causes harmful delays in care. The NMA is leading efforts to reform this system, making it more efficient, more transparent, and more accountable. Our proposal, LB77, aims to: 

  • Eliminate unnecessary delays in care decisions. 
  • Ensure patients don’t experience gaps in care for chronic conditions. 
  • Reduce the administrative burden on physicians and other practitioners, so they can focus on patient care. 

These reforms are about putting patients first and making health care more efficient for everyone. 

Expanding Access Through Medicaid Reimbursement 

Roughly 350,000 Nebraskans rely on Medicaid for their health care, including one-third of pregnant patients, newborns, and children. For too long, inadequate Medicaid reimbursement rates have made it more and more difficult for physicians to accept Medicaid patients. This disparity creates gaps in access to care, especially in rural and underserved areas. 

The NMA is advocating for better Medicaid reimbursement rates to: 

  • Increase rates for physicians, making it possible to serve more patients. 
  • Support rural providers, ensuring care is available across the state. 
  • Strengthen Nebraska’s health care system for everyone. 

LB527 creates a sustainable funding source for Medicaid reimbursement, investing $176 million in reimbursing providers at fair rates. By spearheading this initiative, we’re working to ensure every Nebraskan has access to the care they need, when they need it. 

Why These Changes Matter 

Nebraskans deserve access to quality health care, regardless of zip code. LB77 and LB527 will make it easier for physicians to provide the care their patients deserve. The NMA is proud to lead these efforts, building a stronger, healthier future for our state.