All PlansPrior AuthHigh impact
FAQ - OrthoNet Descope
Healthfirst·Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Podiatry +2 more·Prior Authorization
Effective date
Jan 1, 2024
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Effective January 1, 2024, Healthfirst resumed responsibility for prior authorization requests for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Podiatry Services, and Vascular Surgery, which were previously managed by OrthoNet. Pain Management and Spinal Surgery services continue to require prior authorization through OrthoNet.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must redirect all prior authorization requests for Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Podiatry Services, and Vascular Surgery from OrthoNet to Healthfirst Provider Portal (hfproviderportal.org). Update workflow procedures to submit PA requests through Healthfirst's Online Authorization tab for these services. Continue using OrthoNet only for Pain Management and Spinal Surgery prior authorizations. Use Healthfirst's Procedure Code Lookup Tool to verify which services require PA.