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[California] National Drug Codes (NDCs) are required for outpatient claims

Anthem BCBS·CA·Pharmacy
Effective date
Not stated
We identified it
May 3, 2026
Days to comply

Summary

Anthem California now requires National Drug Codes (NDCs) to be included on all outpatient claims for pharmacy-related services. Claims submitted without proper NDC codes will likely be rejected or denied.

Action Required

Action needed
Immediately: Billing team must update all outpatient claim submissions to include National Drug Codes (NDCs) for any pharmacy-related services or drug administration. Update billing software to require NDC entry for drug-related procedures. Verify NDC codes are populated in practice management system before claim submission. Claims without NDCs will be rejected by Anthem California.