Frequently Asked Questions About Billing for Behavioral Health Services 

Following is information for behavioral health providers on filing claims. 

Does Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico allow supervisory billing? 
Yes, supervisory billing is allowed with a formal relationship. 

Must a trainee’s supervisor be the state supervisor, or would a clinic director or supervisor suffice? 
The clinic supervisor or director can be the rendering provider if the supervisee is under a trainee license. In addition: 

  • There must be a direct supervisor-supervisee relationship. 
  • The supervisor must comply with regulations for the state in which the services are being rendered. 

Should a modifier be used on outpatient claims? 
No modifier is needed on claims. 

Trainee supervision requires that supervisors be in the immediate vicinity of services 100% of the time. What does “immediate vicinity” mean? 
Immediate vicinity means the Qualified Healthcare Provider, as supervisor: 

  • Is reachable to intervene to join a session in the same way it is being delivered 
  • Has reasonable accessibility to the supervisee to address concerns 
  • Must be compliant with state and/or federal regulations associated with the QHP’s respective licensure related to supervision