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Upcoming Policies effective August 3, 2026
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota·Cardiology, ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Orthopedics +1 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Aug 3, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
This policy update revises coverage criteria for implantable cardiac monitors, restricts most tinnitus treatments to experimental status, establishes detailed requirements for balloon dilation of eustachian tubes, and updates criteria for osteochondral grafts including specific BMI and smoking restrictions.
Action Required
By August 3, 2026: Billing team must update prior authorization workflows for implantable cardiac monitors to require previous non-diagnostic external monitoring within 90 days and specialist ordering/supervision. Update documentation requirements for eustachian tube balloon dilation to include 3-month clinical notes, tympanogram reports, and FDA device specifications. For osteochondral procedures, verify BMI <35 kg/m² and 6-week smoking cessation documentation before scheduling. Stop billing for experimental tinnitus treatments including bimodal neuromodulation, electrical stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation as these will be denied.