Medicare AdvantageAdministrativeMedium impact
[California] Manage behavioral health Peer-to-Peer conversations online
Anthem BCBS·CA · Psychiatry·Specialty Services
Effective date
Sep 1, 2026
We identified it
Sep 2, 2026
Summary
Anthem Blue Cross is launching a new online scheduling feature within Availity Essentials that allows providers to schedule and cancel Peer-to-Peer (P2P) conversations electronically, replacing the current phone and email submission process. This change applies across Commercial, Medicare Advantage, and Medicaid plans in California and offers 24/7 self-service scheduling with real-time visibility into appointments.
Action Required
By September 1, 2026: Billing and clinical staff must transition P2P scheduling from phone/email submissions to the Availity Essentials online platform. Staff should log into Availity Essentials (https://Availity.com), navigate to the Anthem payer space, and familiarize themselves with the new P2P scheduling and cancellation workflow. Update internal procedures and staff training to reflect the new online process. For questions or technical support, contact Availity Chat with Payer during business hours or visit the Anthem provider website Contact Us section. This change reduces administrative burden but requires workflow adjustment; failure to utilize the new system may result in scheduling delays.