
BCBS PPO prior authorization can be a frustrating process, but understanding the basics can make it more manageable. To start, BCBS PPO requires prior authorization for certain services, including prescriptions, surgeries, and medical procedures.
You'll need to submit a prior authorization request at least 5 business days before the scheduled service date. This allows BCBS PPO to review the request and make a decision in a timely manner.
BCBS PPO has a list of approved medications, and your doctor may need to request a prior authorization for a medication that's not on the list. This ensures that you're getting the most effective treatment for your condition.
Check this out: Bcbs Arkansas Prior Authorization List
Services Requiring Approval
If you're a healthcare provider, it's essential to know which services require prior approval from BCBS PPO. Some of these services include outpatient medical/surgical services for fully insured and ASO members, such as advanced imaging, molecular genetic lab testing, and musculoskeletal procedures.
For instance, advanced imaging services like radiology, molecular genetic lab testing, and musculoskeletal procedures like joint and spine surgery require prior authorization for fully insured members. Similarly, sleep studies and select outpatient services require prior authorization for ASO members.
For more insights, see: Prior Authorization Services
Here are some services that require prior approval from BCBS PPO:
* Outpatient medical/surgical services for fully insured and ASO members, including:
+ Advanced imaging (radiology, molecular genetic lab testing)
+ Musculoskeletal procedures (joint, spine surgery, pain management)
+ Sleep studies
+ Select outpatient services
* Behavioral health services, including applied behavioral analysis (ABA) therapy, require prior authorization through Companion Benefits Alternatives (CBA).
To request prior authorization, you can use the Medical Forms Resource Center (MFRC) online tool, the My Insurance Manager online self-service provider tool, or fax the completed form to BCBS PPO. For behavioral health services, you can contact CBA at 800-868-1032 or use the Forms Resource Center online tool.
Consider reading: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tn Prior Authorization Forms
Prior Authorization Process
Prior authorization is a requirement for certain services and medications under a BCBS PPO plan. You must submit a request for prior authorization for your patient, and it's not accepted from pharmacies.
To submit a prior authorization request, you can use the Utilization management authorization request form (PDF) or submit electronically through your Electronic Health Record tool software or online portals. Some medicines and benefits require prior authorization by Blue Cross Complete, so be sure to check the list of required forms.
You'll need to submit a request for a prior authorization for your patient, and also submit an override of a drug restriction. You can access the Medical Authorizations portal through NaviNet on the Workflows menu.
Here are some benefits of submitting authorizations electronically:
- Verify if No Authorization is Required
- Receive Auto Approvals, in some circumstances
- Submit Amended Authorization
- Attach supplemental documentation
- Sign up for in-app status change notifications directly from the health plan
- Access a multi-payer Authorization log
- Submit inpatient concurrent reviews online if you have Health Information Exchange (HIE) capabilities
- Review inpatient admission notifications and provide supporting clinical documentation
Certain medications require prior authorization, including those with HCPCS codes that require prior authorization. You can find the list of codes that require prior authorization on the HCPCS PA List (PDF).
For non-emergency outpatient diagnostic imaging services, you'll need to submit a prior authorization request to Evolent, formerly National Imaging Associates, Inc. You can find resources and information on RadMD.com or by calling Evolent at 1-800-424-5351.
Recommended read: Aetna Medicare Prior Authorization List
Program Details
AIM Specialty Health (AIM) is contracted with BCBSNM to provide certain utilization management prior authorization services for Commercial, Retail, and ASO members, as well as Blue Cross Community Centennial Members.
Services requiring prior authorization through AIM include Molecular and Genomic Tests, Radiation Therapy, Advanced Imaging, Musculoskeletal, Sleep Studies, and Select Outpatient Procedures.
For more insights, see: Aim Prior Authorization
Providers can use the AIM ProviderPortal for Pre & Post-Service Reviews, which offers benefits such as not needing medical records for pre or post-service reviews, self-service, smart clinical algorithms, and real-time determinations.
The AIM ProviderPortal also allows providers to check prior authorization status, increase payment certainty, and receive faster pre-service decision turnaround times than post-service reviews.
Here are the services requiring prior authorization through AIM:
- Molecular and Genomic Tests
- Radiation Therapy
- Advanced Imaging
- Musculoskeletal
- Sleep Studies (for ASO and Fully Insured Members with health advocacy solutions or Wellbeing Management plan options)
- Select Outpatient Procedures
CPT Code Lists
CPT Code Lists are used to determine if a member's procedure requires prior authorization. This list is updated regularly to ensure that members receive the care they need in a timely manner.
There are several categories to review, including Medical Procedure, Medical Drugs, and Behavioral Service. These categories help identify which services may require preauthorization.
The article provides specific lists of CPT codes that require preauthorization for different types of members, including Fully Insured Members and Administrative Services Only Members. These lists are effective on different dates, including January 1, 2022, and April 1, 2022.
Curious to learn more? Check out: Does Bcbs Require Prior Authorization
Here are the specific lists mentioned in the article:
Preauthorization is not a guarantee of payment, and payment is subject to several factors, including eligibility and payment of premiums.
Health Program
In the Health Program, AIM Specialty Health (AIM) plays a crucial role in providing certain utilization management prior authorization services for BCBSNM members. AIM is an independent company that specializes in specialty medical benefits management.
BCBSNM has contracted with AIM to manage services such as Molecular and Genomic Tests, Radiation Therapy, Advanced Imaging, Musculoskeletal, and Sleep Studies for certain members. These services require prior authorization through AIM.
Providers can use the AIM ProviderPortal for Pre & Post-Service Reviews to request prior authorization and respond to post-service review requests. This portal offers self-service, smart clinical algorithms, and in many instances, real-time determinations.
The AIM ProviderPortal allows providers to check prior authorization status, increase payment certainty, and receive faster pre-service decision turnaround times than post-service reviews. Medical records are not necessary for pre or post-service reviews unless specifically requested by AIM.
Suggestion: Health Net Prior Authorization

The AIM ProviderPortal is a convenient tool for providers to manage prior authorizations and reviews. Providers can submit the New Mexico Uniform Prior Authorization Form through the portal by checking the "Submit New Mexico Uniform Prior Authorization Form" box and uploading the completed form.
Providers can contact AIM via phone at (800) 859-5299 or online through the AIM ProviderPortal for assistance with prior authorizations and reviews.
Additional reading: New Jersey Prior Authorization Legislation
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