CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Open and Thoracoscopic Approaches to Treat Atrial Fibrillation and Atrial Flutter (Maze and Related Procedures)
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiology·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBS Mississippi updated their policy on maze procedures for atrial fibrillation treatment. The policy clarifies that maze procedures are medically necessary only when performed during concomitant cardiac surgery, while stand-alone minimally invasive procedures and hybrid ablation approaches remain investigational and non-covered.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must verify that maze procedure claims are only submitted when performed with concomitant cardiac surgery (valve or bypass surgery). Flag any stand-alone maze procedures or hybrid ablation procedures as investigational/non-covered before claim submission. Update prior authorization workflows to require documentation of concomitant cardiac surgery for maze procedure approvals.