previous and prior imply existing or occurring earlier, but prior often adds an implication of greater importance.

PRIOR definition: preceding in time or in order; earlier or former; previous. See examples of prior used in a sentence.

PRIOR definition: 1. existing or happening before something else, or before a particular time: 2. before a…. Learn more.

Usage Note: Though prior usually modifies a noun that comes after it, as in prior approval, it sometimes modifies a noun for a unit of time which precedes it, as in five years prior.

Definition of prior adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Navigate the Cigna Healthcare precertification process, and ensure your patients receive timely care by understanding our prior authorization requirements.

There are six meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun prior, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

A prior claim or duty is more important than other claims or duties and needs to be dealt with first. The firm I wanted to use had prior commitments.

Prior Authorization (PA) 2026 There are three reasons for the use of prior authorization: scope controls, utilization controls and product based controls. This section includes the list of …

Prior authorization request information for healthcare providers. Get notification lists and download state-specific lists.