CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
[New York] Precertification/prior authorization requirement updates — Carelon Medical Benefits Management
Anthem BCBS·NY · Infectious Disease, Pathology, General Surgery +1 more·Provider Bulletin
Effective date
Nov 1, 2026
We identified it
Jul 1, 2026
Summary
Effective November 1, 2026, CPT code 0600U (infectious disease wound infection identification with antibiotic resistance testing) now requires precertification/prior authorization through Carelon Medical Benefits Management for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield commercial plans in New York. Providers must submit authorization requests via the Carelon provider portal, Availity Essentials, or email before performing this genetic test.
Action Required
By October 31, 2026: Billing team and providers must implement prior authorization requirement for CPT 0600U in all systems and workflows. (1) Update billing software to flag CPT 0600U as requiring prior authorization before claim submission; (2) Configure encounter forms and order entry systems to prompt providers to obtain precertification before ordering this test; (3) Train ordering providers and lab staff that this code now requires Carelon precertification; (4) Establish process for submitting authorization requests through Carelon Medical Benefits Management provider portal (https://providerportal.com), Availity Essentials (https://Availity.com), or email (MedicalBenefitsManagement.guidelines@Carelon.com). For questions on authorization guidelines, contact Carelon at the provided email. Failure to obtain prior authorization will result in claim denials for affected Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield commercial members in New York.