Mgma Small Talk

In this episode of the MGMA Insights Podcast, Sr. Editor and host Daniel Williams sits down with Paola Ballester, MD, pediatric hospitalist, medical director for utilization management, and senior physician advisor at a large, freestanding academic children’s hospital and regional pediatric referral center. Dr. Ballester is also the co-founder of EasyPA, an AI-driven platform designed to streamline prior authorization processes. Together, they explore how medical practices can tackle administrative burdens, leverage technology, and prepare for upcoming regulatory changes — all while improving patient access to care.Key Takeaways02:45 Dr. Ballester’s Unique Journey From insurance claims adjuster to pediatric hospitalist — how her background shaped her expertise in utilization management and revenue cycle.06:27 The Pain Points of Prior Authorization Why delays in prior auth lead to patient suffering and staff frustration, and why the current system is broken. 08:01 Introducing EasyPA How an AI-powered platform