CommercialPrior AuthHigh impact
New policies
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Cardiology, Orthopedics, Vascular Surgery +2 more·Physician / Facility
Effective date
Nov 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBS Rhode Island has created four new medical policies effective November 1, 2025, covering catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation, orthopedic stem cell therapy applications, stem cell therapy for peripheral arterial disease, and prior authorization requirements for physical and occupational therapy services.
Action Required
Before November 1, 2025: Billing team must review the full text of all four new policies on BCBSRI.com under Medical Policies section. Update billing system to reflect new prior authorization requirements for physical and occupational therapy services. Verify coverage criteria for catheter ablation procedures and stem cell therapies. Update encounter forms and provider alerts for affected services.