Understanding Bcbs Federal Medical Policy for Medicare Advantage Members

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As a Medicare Advantage member, it's essential to understand Blue Cross Blue Shield's (BCBS) federal medical policy, which outlines the guidelines for medical services and treatments. BCBS federal medical policy is designed to ensure that Medicare Advantage members receive high-quality care while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

BCBS federal medical policy is based on the Medicare program, but it also has its own set of rules and guidelines. For instance, BCBS may have different coverage requirements for certain medical services, such as durable medical equipment or transportation services.

BCBS federal medical policy also covers preventive services, including annual wellness visits, screenings, and vaccinations. These services are designed to help Medicare Advantage members stay healthy and prevent illnesses.

Understanding BCBS federal medical policy can help you navigate the healthcare system and make informed decisions about your care. By knowing what's covered and what's not, you can avoid unexpected medical bills and ensure that you receive the best possible care.

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BCBS Federal Medical Policy Updates

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BCBS Federal Medical Policy Updates are designed to reflect the latest medical guidelines and technologies.

BCBS Federal has updated its policy on screening colonoscopies, requiring a high-risk factor for individuals under 50.

These updates aim to provide more accurate and effective care for patients.

July 2022 Medical Policy Updates

In July 2022, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) made several updates to their medical policies, affecting various treatments and services.

The BCBS Federal Medical Policy Update for July 2022 includes changes to the coverage of certain medications, including injectable medications for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.

BCBS now covers injectable medications for multiple sclerosis, such as Aubagio, Tecfidera, and Tysabri, but with certain requirements.

The updated policy requires prior authorization for these medications, and coverage is limited to patients with moderate to severe disease.

BCBS also updated their policy on the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for musculoskeletal conditions.

The updated policy now requires prior authorization for PRP therapy, and coverage is limited to patients with chronic pain or osteoarthritis.

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BCBS has also made changes to their coverage of certain genetic tests, including whole-exome sequencing and next-generation sequencing.

The updated policy now requires prior authorization for these genetic tests, and coverage is limited to patients with a confirmed diagnosis of a genetic disorder.

BCBS has also updated their policy on the use of telehealth services, including video and phone consultations.

The updated policy now allows for telehealth services to be used for routine follow-up appointments, as well as for new patient visits.

Free Preventive Care

Staying on top of your health is important, and Blue Cross Blue Shield has got you covered. Your annual physical is always covered when you visit a Preferred provider.

Immunizations are also covered, so be sure to stay up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations.

Screenings are covered as well, so you can catch any potential health issues before they become major problems.

You can visit a Preferred provider for all your preventive care needs, and rest assured that you won't receive a surprise bill.

A fresh viewpoint: Provider Bcbs

Medicare Advantage Members

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Medicare Advantage members are covered under specific guidelines.

These guidelines are based on Medicare coverage rules, including National Coverage Determination (NCD) policies and Local Coverage Determination (LCD) policies.

Medicare Advantage coverage determinations are made using these guidelines.

For situations where there is no NCD or LCD, we follow our commercial medical policies for Medicare Advantage members.

Commercial and Medicare policies are listed in medical policy 132, Medicare Advantage Management.

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FEP Claims Submission

To submit FEP claims, you have two options: electronic data interchange (EDI) or mail. To submit electronically, you can either be a trading partner or use a third-party clearinghouse, both of which require completing required forms before claims can be processed.

You can also submit FEP claims via mail by downloading and printing the CMS 1500 or UB04 form, which you'll need to complete and mail to Blue Cross NC along with any supporting documents.

Make sure to use black ink and include the member's Blue Cross NCID on all claims and attachments. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact Blue Cross NC's FEP Customer Service at 800-222-4739.

For another approach, see: Bcbs Fep Medical Policy

Signing up for FEP Claims Submission via EDI

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To sign up for FEP claims submission via EDI, you can submit commercial claims electronically as a trading partner or with a third-party clearinghouse.

You'll need to choose between being a trading partner or using a clearinghouse to submit your claims electronically. As a trading partner, you'll be directly connected to the system, while a clearinghouse acts as an intermediary.

Before we can accept and process any claims, you or your clearinghouse will need to complete the required forms. This is a crucial step in the process, so make sure to get it right.

You'll need to have the necessary forms completed and submitted before we can start processing your claims. This ensures a smooth and efficient claims submission process.

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How to Submit FEP Claims via Mail

To submit FEP claims via mail, you'll need to download the CMS 1500 or UB04 form. Print and complete the form using black ink, as this is the preferred method.

For another approach, see: Bcbs Medical Necessity Form

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First, you'll need to download the correct form. The CMS 1500 or UB04 form can be downloaded for your use.

Once you have the form, print it out and complete it in black ink. Make sure to include all necessary information.

To ensure timely processing, mail the completed form and any supporting documents to Blue Cross NC at PO Box 35 in Durham, NC 27702.

You can also contact Blue Cross NC's FEP Customer Service at 800-222-4739 for assistance with submitting your claim.

Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Download CMS 1500 or UB04 form
  2. Print and complete form
  3. Mail paper claim form and any supporting documents to Blue Cross NC at PO Box 35 in Durham, NC 27702
  4. Make sure all claims and attachments have member's Blue Cross NC ID

Member Benefits

As a BCBS FEP Dental member, you can take advantage of our updated dental benefits. We've expanded our coverage to include two routine oral exams and one additional exam if a problem happens between checkups every year.

You'll also have access to nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, for your children's dental appointments if they're five or under. This can help make their visits more comfortable.

For more insights, see: Bcbs Federal Employee Program Dental

Abraham Lebsack

Lead Writer

Abraham Lebsack is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in finance and insurance. With a focus on educating readers, he has crafted informative articles on critical illness insurance, providing valuable insights and guidance for those navigating complex financial decisions. Abraham's expertise in the field of critical illness insurance has allowed him to develop comprehensive guides, breaking down intricate topics into accessible and actionable advice.

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