Medicare AdvantageCoverageMedium impact
2023 benefit changes
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Psychiatry, Podiatry·Provider Update
Effective date
Jan 1, 2023
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI implemented multiple benefit changes effective January 1, 2023, including discontinuation of BlueCHiP for Medicare Advance (members moved to Value plan), elimination of prior authorization for certain out-of-network behavioral health services, expanded routine foot care coverage beyond diabetes, standardized hearing aid benefits, $0 copay for methadone maintenance, and new coverage for stander devices with prior authorization.
Action Required
Immediately: Update billing system to reflect that BlueCHiP for Medicare Advance members are now on BlueCHiP for Medicare Value plan. For behavioral health services, switch from prior authorization to notice of admission/discharge process for out-of-network non-urgent inpatient, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, TMS, and intensive community services. Expand routine foot care billing to include metabolic, neurologic, and peripheral vascular disease conditions beyond diabetes. Update hearing aid benefit limits to $1,500 per aid (or $2,000 for NEHP plans) regardless of age. Bill methadone maintenance at $0 copay. Obtain prior authorization for stander devices under DME coverage.