CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
Emsam (selegiline)
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBS Mississippi updated their Emsam (selegiline) transdermal patch policy with revised prior authorization criteria for major depressive disorder treatment. The policy now requires patients to fail two antidepressants or have contraindications before approval, with 12-month approval periods for initial and renewal requests.
Action Required
Immediately: Update prior authorization procedures for Emsam (selegiline) transdermal patch prescriptions. Ensure documentation includes: patient age 18+, major depressive disorder diagnosis, failure of two antidepressants from different classes OR contraindications/intolerances OR inability to take oral medications, confirmation patient not on other serotonergic agents, and dosage within FDA limits. Claims team must verify these criteria before submitting PA requests to avoid denials.