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Policy reminder regarding utilization review decisions

October 25, 2018

In accordance with the provisions of the member?s health plan, all utilization review decisions are based on:

  • the member?s health plan benefits;
  • Independence?s definition of medical necessity, including but not limited to the most cost-effective setting for the requested services;
  • the appropriateness of the requested care, services, and supplies;
  • and the member having active coverage at the time care, services and supplies are requested and/or provided.

Note: Only licensed physicians may make denials of coverage of health care services and supplies based on lack of medical necessity during a utilization review.

The Independence physician medical directors and independent physician medical consultants who perform utilization review services for Independence are not compensated or given incentives based on their coverage decisions. Contracted external physicians are compensated on a per-hour or per-case-reviewed basis, regardless of the coverage determination. Independence does not provide financial incentives to internal or external physicians performing utilization review services for issuing denials of coverage.

Providers are required to enter all routine authorization requests through the Authorization transaction on the NaviNet? web portal. If there are any requests that require immediate review or involve members with coverage through the Federal Employee Program, or if NaviNet is not available, providers can call 1-800-ASK-BLUE. Facilities can also call 1-800-ASK-BLUE for ambulance and discharge planning needs.

NaviNet is a registered trademark of NaviNet, Inc., an independent company.


This content was prepared for the Provider News Center and may not be reproduced in any way without the express written permission of Independence Blue Cross. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
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