Policy Updates Prior AuthorizationMedicare AdvantageNovember 15, 2023

Prior authorization requirement changes effective May 1, 2024 

UPDATE: This article was originally published as being effective March 1, 2024. The effective date has been delayed to May 1, 2024.

Effective May 1, 2024, prior authorization (PA) requirements will change for the following code(s). The medical code(s) listed below will require PA by Anthem Blue Cross for Medicare members. Federal and state law, as well as state contract language and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services guidelines, including definitions and specific contract provisions/exclusions take precedence over these precertification rules and must be considered first when determining coverage. Non-compliance with new requirements may result in denied claims. 

Prior authorization requirements will be added for the following code(s):

Code

Description

0738T

Treatment planning for magnetic field induction ablation of malignant prostate tissue, using data from previously performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination

0739T

Ablation of malignant prostate tissue by magnetic field induction, including all intraprocedural, transperineal needle/catheter placement for nanoparticle installation and int

Not all PA requirements are listed here. Detailed PA requirements are available to providers on anthem.com/ca/provider/medicare-advantage on the Resources tab or for contracted providers by accessing Availity.com. Providers may also call the number on the back of their patient’s member ID card for Provider Services for assistance with PA requirements.

UM AROW #: A2023M0443

Anthem BC Health Insurance Company is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. Anthem Blue Cross is the trade name of Blue Cross of California. Anthem Blue Cross, Anthem Blue Cross Life and Health Insurance Company, and Anthem BC Health Insurance Company are independent licensees of the Blue Cross Association. Anthem is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc.

CABC-CR-044234-23-CPN43832, CPN-CRMMP-049296-24

PUBLICATIONS: February 2024 Provider Newsletter, December 2023 Provider Newsletter