CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
[New York] Precertification/prior authorization list change notification
Anthem BCBS·NY · Dermatology, General Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery·Provider Bulletin
Effective date
Jan 1, 2027
We identified it
Sep 17, 2026
Summary
Effective January 1, 2027, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is adding surgical treatment of hyperhidrosis (CPT codes 32664 and 64818) to its precertification/prior authorization requirements in New York. Billing teams must obtain prior authorization before submitting claims for these procedures, or claims will be denied.
Action Required
By December 31, 2026: Billing team must update the billing system and prior authorization protocols to require precertification for CPT 32664 and 64818 (surgical treatment of hyperhidrosis) for all Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Commercial members in New York. Update encounter forms and provider templates to flag these codes as requiring prior authorization before submission. Verify member eligibility and benefits through Availity Essentials (https://Availity.com) or by calling the number on the member's ID card before scheduling or billing. Failure to obtain prior authorization will result in claim denials. Train billing and clinical staff on the new requirement immediately.