CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Standing Devices and Gait Trainers 1.01.46
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield·Orthopedics, Neurology, Pediatrics +2 more·Durable Medical Equipment & Supplies
Effective date
Feb 19, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has updated their medical policy for standing devices and gait trainers, effective February 19, 2026. The policy establishes specific medical necessity criteria including requirements for ADL independence, documentation from specialists, and mandatory one-month trial periods with documented improvement for certain conditions.
Action Required
Before February 19, 2026: Billing team must update prior authorization requirements for standing devices and gait trainers to require documentation from orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, developmental pediatricians, or physiatrists. Update systems to require proof of ADL necessity, trial period documentation, and meaningful improvement evidence. Create checklist for required documentation including diagnosis/prognosis, functional goals, trial results, compliance history, alternatives considered, and current DME usage. Claims without proper documentation will be denied.