July 27, 2020
We are excited to introduce an electronic predetermination of benefits process via the Availity Provider Portal using the Attachments tool. This new process is available to providers as of July 30, 2020, making it faster and easier to submit a predetermination of benefits request.
As a reminder, a predetermination of benefits is a voluntary request for written verification of benefits before rendering services. BCBSTX recommends submitting a predetermination of benefits request if the service may be considered experimental, investigational or unproven, as specified within the BCBSTX Medical Policy.
You must be registered with Availity to use the new Attachments tool. You can sign up today at Availity, at no charge. For registration assistance, call Availity Client Services at 1-800-282-4548.
Note: If you don’t have online access, you may continue to fax and/or mail predetermination of benefit requests along with a completed Predetermination Request Form and pertinent medical documentation.
How does the new online process work?
Submitting online predetermination of benefits requests through the Availity Attachments application is simple and convenient:
- Log in to Availity
- Select Claims & Payments from the navigation menu
- Select Attachments – New
- Within the tool, select Send Attachment then Predetermination Attachment
- Download and complete the Predetermination Request Form
- Complete the required data elements
- Upload the completed form and attach supporting documentation
- Select Send Attachment(s)
Training
BCBSTX is hosting complimentary webinars for you to learn how to submit an electronic predetermination of benefits request. Simply click on your preferred date and time below to register.
- Aug. 3, 2020 – 1:30 to 2 p.m.
- Aug. 4, 2020 – 9 to 9:30 a.m.
- Aug. 5, 2020 – 11 to 11:30 a.m.
- Aug. 6, 2020 – 3 to 3:30 p.m.
- Aug. 7, 2020 – 10 to 10:30 a.m.
For More Information
If you need further assistance or customized training, contact our Provider Education Consultants. Also watch for a new Electronic Predetermination Request user guide, coming soon to the Provider Tools section of our website.
The information in this notice does not apply to requests for Texas Medicaid or Medicare Advantage members.
Availity is a trademark of Availity, LLC, a separate company that operates a health information network to provide electronic information exchange services to medical professionals. Availity provides administrative services to BCBSTX. BCBSTX makes no endorsement, representations or warranties regarding any products or services provided by third party vendors such as Availity. If you have any questions about the products or services provided by such vendors, you should contact the vendor(s) directly.