Utilization management is at the heart of how you access the right care, at the right place and at the right time. It includes:
We use evidence-based clinical standards of care to make sure you get the health care you need.
What Is Prior Authorization?
Sometimes you may need to get approval from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) before we will cover certain inpatient, outpatient and home health care services and prescription drugs. This is called prior authorization, preauthorization or prior approval. These terms all refer to the requirements that you may need to meet before treatment may begin.
Who Requests Prior Authorization?
Usually, in-network health care providers will take care of prior authorization before they perform a service. But, it’s always a good idea to check if your providers have the needed approval.
If your providers aren’t in network, you’ll be responsible for getting the prior authorization. If you don’t, we may not cover the cost and you may be fully responsible for the resulting bills. To check if your provider is in network, check Provider Finder®.
You or your provider can request a renewal of a prior authorization up to 60 days before it expires.
BCBSNM contracts with outside vendors, including Carelon Medical Benefits Management® (Carelon), eviCore® healthcare and Magellan Healthcare for certain prior authorization services.
How You Can Request Prior Authorization
Check with us to see if your provider has requested prior authorization before you get any services. To do so, call the number on your BCBSNM member ID card.
If your health care provider has not requested prior authorization, you can request it. To begin, print this prior authorization request form. Give it to your provider to complete and return to BCBSNM. You can also submit the form yourself. Call us if you need help to complete the process.
What Happens During the Prior Authorization Process?
BCBSNM reviews the requested service or drug to see if it’s medically necessary and appropriate for your needs. This review does not replace the advice of your provider.
We need the following information to complete a prior authorization request:
- Your name, subscriber ID number and date of birth
- Your provider’s name, address and National Provider Identifier (NPI)
- Information about your medical or behavioral health condition
- The proposed treatment plan, including any diagnostic or procedure codes (your provider can help you with these)
- The date you’ll receive service and the estimated length of stay (if you are being admitted)
- The place you will receive the service or drug
Do You Need Prior Authorization?
Use the search below to find out if you require prior authorization or not. Note that this search is only for members who are fully insured*. Your procedure can fall under one of the 3 categories shown below.
