MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
23-646m Prioritize Bicillin® L-A to Treat Syphilis in Pregnant Persons Until Q4 2023
Health Net·CA · Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, OB-GYN +2 more·Prior Authorization
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Due to a Bicillin L-A shortage lasting until Q4 2023, CalViva Health has established treatment prioritization guidelines for syphilis. Bicillin L-A must be reserved for pregnant patients and infants, while non-pregnant adults should be treated with doxycycline as an alternative until the shortage resolves.
Action Required
Immediately: Providers in Fresno, Kings and Madera counties must prioritize Bicillin L-A for pregnant patients with syphilis and use doxycycline for non-pregnant adults. Update treatment protocols and EMR templates to reflect new prescribing guidelines. Contact local health department for Bicillin L-A shortage issues or STD Clinical Consultation Network for clinical questions at 510-620-3400.