CommercialCoverageHigh impact
COVID-19 Related Policy Updates Regarding the Public Health Emergency Ending
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI·Provider Update
Effective date
May 12, 2023
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI is ending COVID-19 emergency policies with multiple effective dates starting May 12, 2023. Key changes include reinstating member cost-sharing for telemedicine codes 99211/99212, ending coverage for over-the-counter COVID tests without provider orders, and requiring referrals again for Medicare Advantage starting July 1, 2023.
Action Required
By May 12, 2023: Billing team must update system to apply member cost-sharing for CPT 99211 and 99212 telemedicine visits, stop billing U0003, U0004, U0005, G2023, and G2024 codes, and discontinue split preventative visits (99381-99397). By July 1, 2023: Ensure all Medicare Advantage referrals are obtained before scheduling as claims will be denied without proper authorization. By July 10, 2023: Stop billing CPT 99401CR as a separately reimbursable service.