CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Facet Blocks for Treatment of Back Pain
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Pain Management, Anesthesiology, PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehab) +2 more·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi updated their facet block policy for back pain treatment, allowing 2 sessions per level per calendar year with maximum 3 facet blocks per session using fluoroscopy guidance. Thermal radiofrequency destruction is only allowed once per calendar year per level as last resort.
Action Required
Immediately: Update billing system to enforce frequency limits of 2 facet block sessions per level per calendar year with maximum 3 blocks per session. Ensure all facet blocks require fluoroscopy guidance coding. Flag thermal radiofrequency destruction procedures to allow only once per level per calendar year. Update prior authorization requirements for radiofrequency procedures as last resort treatment only.