Who may modify, delay or deny requests for authorization of treatment?

• A. A nurse may modify, delay or deny requests for authorization of treatment.
• B. The patient may modify or deny requests for authorization of treatment.
• C. A physician's assistant may modify, delay or deny requests for authorization of treatment.
• D. Only a licensed physician may modify, delay or deny requests for authorization of treatment.

Answer: (D)

When deciding whether to authorize treatment, the final authority rests with the licensed physician. Medical decisions require professional clinical judgment and accountability for patient safety, medical necessity, and appropriateness of care. While nurses and physician assistants work within their scopes of practice and may contribute to the decision, they do not independently modify, delay, or deny authorization. The patient cannot unilaterally control the authorization process. Therefore, only a licensed physician has the authority to modify, delay, or deny requests for treatment authorization.