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CommercialBilling CodesHigh impact

Use modifier SA on incident-to claims, starting Sept. 1

BCBS Michigan·MI·Coding
Effective date
Sep 1, 2026
We identified it
Aug 26, 2026
Days to comply

Summary

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan requires use of modifier SA on all incident-to claims for commercial members effective September 1, 2026. Starting March 1, 2027, eligible providers must file incident-to claims under their own NPI rather than under the supervising provider's NPI. Reimbursement will be paid at the submitting provider's applicable rate.

Action Required

Action needed
By August 31, 2026: Billing team must update billing system to automatically append modifier SA to all incident-to claims for Blue Cross commercial members. Update claim submission templates and provider encounter forms to flag incident-to services. Train all billing staff to identify incident-to scenarios and ensure SA modifier is included on claims submitted on or after Sept 1, 2026. By February 28, 2027: Providers eligible for direct participation must transition to filing incident-to claims under their own NPI instead of the supervising provider's NPI for dates of service on or after March 1, 2027. Update billing system NPI routing rules and provider setup records. Failure to use modifier SA will result in claims being processed at incorrect reimbursement rates or potential denials. Review updated FAQ in Blue Cross provider portal under Billing and Claims > Medical and Reimbursement Policies.