CommercialAdministrativeLow impact
11.14.06j, Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI) and Other Cell-based Treatments of Focal Articular Cartilage Lesions (Independence Administrators)
Independence Blue Cross·Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, General Surgery·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
This is a reissue of policy 11.14.06j confirming Independence Administrators' continuing position on autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and cell-based cartilage treatments. The policy applies only to Independence Administrators claims (not Commercial Independence members, who use AIM Specialty Health guidelines). No substantive coverage criteria changes are documented in this reissue.
Action Required
No immediate billing changes required. Billing team should verify that claims are routing to the correct policy: Independence Administrators members use policy 11.14.06j; Commercial Independence members use AIM Specialty Health guidelines per policy #00.01.66. Confirm member eligibility and UM vendor enrollment status before billing ACI procedures (CPT 27412, 29870; HCPCS S2112, J7330). This is a routine reissue; no new requirements introduced.