All PlansAdministrativeLow impact
Improving patient outcomes for Initiation and Engagement of Substance Use Disorder Treatment HEDIS measure
Cigna·Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine +1 more·Quality Measures
We identified it
Jun 18, 2026
Summary
Cigna/Evernorth has updated guidance on the HEDIS Initiation and Engagement of Substance Use Disorder Treatment (IET) measure, emphasizing the importance of scheduling follow-up appointments within 14 days of SUD diagnosis and ensuring two additional treatments within 34 days. This is primarily a quality improvement initiative rather than a billing policy change.
Action Required
Providers should schedule SUD follow-up appointments within 14 days of diagnosis before patients leave the facility, maintain appointment availability for hospital discharges, utilize appointment reminders, and offer telehealth visits when in-person visits aren't possible within the 14-day window to meet HEDIS quality measures.