MedicaidPrior AuthMedium impact
Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) Program
Illinois Medicaid - HFS·IL · Psychiatry, Pediatrics·Provider Notice
Effective date
Jul 1, 2004
We identified it
Jun 21, 2026
Summary
Illinois is implementing a new Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) program for children and adolescents at risk of psychiatric hospitalization. All services require prior authorization through a new CARES phone line (1-800-345-9049) before billing can occur.
Action Required
By July 1, 2004: Billing team must contact CARES at 1-800-345-9049 for prior authorization before providing mental health services to children/adolescents under 21 who are eligible for DCFS, DHS, or DPA Medical Programs including KidCare. Attend mandatory fee-for-service billing training sessions in July. Claims cannot be submitted without CARES prior approval entry into DPA's system.