CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Ablation of Peripheral Nerves to Treat Pain (7.01.154)
Blue Shield of California·CA · Pain Management, Orthopedics, Neurology +1 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jun 1, 2026
We identified it
Jun 1, 2026
Summary
Blue Shield of California updated their policy on peripheral nerve ablation for pain treatment, classifying radiofrequency ablation and cryoneurolysis for knee osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, occipital neuralgia, cervicogenic headache, and vertebrogenic back pain as investigational (non-covered) services effective June 1, 2026.
Action Required
Before June 1, 2026: Review all scheduled peripheral nerve ablation procedures for knee osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, occipital neuralgia, cervicogenic headache, and vertebrogenic back pain with Blue Shield of California patients. Update billing staff and providers that these procedures will be considered investigational and likely non-covered. Verify coverage and obtain prior authorization or patient financial responsibility acknowledgments for these services.