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MA05.032e, Power Wheelchairs (PWCs), Power-Operated Vehicles (POVs), and Power-Assist System Devices
Effective date
Oct 28, 2026
Identified
Nov 3, 2026
Summary
Independence Blue Cross Medicare Advantage added a face-to-face encounter and written order prior authorization requirement for HCPCS code K0831 (Power wheelchair, group 2 standard, seat elevator, captain's chair, patient weight capacity up to and including 300 pounds), effective 10/28/2026. The practice must obtain prior authorization before delivering this device to Medicare Advantage members.
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What to do
Action · 5 steps
01Previously due 10/28/2026 (date passed; verify current applicability) (already effective as of analysis date 2026-11-03): Billing and clinical staff must confirm that all future claims for HCPCS code K0831 for Independence Blue Cross Medicare Advantage members include prior authorization.
02Update charge entry and claim submission workflows to require prior authorization before scheduling or delivering K0831 devices.
03Confirm that providers obtain a face-to-face encounter and document a written order prior to delivery.
04Claims submitted for K0831 without prior authorization will be denied.
05Notify providers and durable medical equipment vendors of the prior authorization requirement for this specific code.
Codes mentioned
K0831
Original notice
MA05.032e, Power Wheelchairs (PWCs), Power-Operated Vehicles (POVs), and Power-Assist System Devices
medpolicy.ibx.com · Always check the source before changing claims.
Related changes
See all Independence Blue Cross changes →MA05.046l, Wheelchair Options and AccessoriesHighEffective Oct 28, 2026 · Medical Policy05.00.54m, Power Wheelchairs (PWCs), Power-Operated Vehicles (POVs), and Power-Assist System DevicesMediumEffective Oct 28, 2026 · Medical Policy05.00.67w, Wheelchair Options and AccessoriesHighEffective Oct 28, 2026 · Medical PolicyMA05.026f, Manual WheelchairsHighEffective Oct 28, 2026 · Medical PolicyBrowse every Independence Blue Cross change in the policy list