Medicare AdvantagePrior AuthMedium impact
New post-acute care vendor for Tufts Medicare Preferred
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care·MA·Provider Newsletter
Effective date
Apr 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Starting April 1, 2026, Tufts Medicare Preferred members in Massachusetts will require prior authorization submissions to a new vendor, Home and Community Care Transitions, for all post-acute care services including SNF, IRF/AIR, LTAC, and home health care. Providers must use the new 'Access' portal for authorizations instead of submitting directly to Tufts Health Plan.
Action Required
Before April 1, 2026: Billing team must register for and learn to use Home and Community Care Transitions' 'Access' portal for all post-acute care prior authorizations for Tufts Medicare Preferred members in Massachusetts. Access the Care Transitions Partner Hub for training materials and documentation requirements. Update workflow to submit home health start of care notifications and obtain prior auth after 30 days of treatment. Current Tufts-approved authorizations remain valid and do not need resubmission.