Traditional MedicareCoverageMedium impact
Updated Interqual content release for Medicare Local Coverage Determination (LCD) Epidural Steroid Injections
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·Pain Management, Orthopedics, PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehab) +2 more·Physician
Effective date
Dec 1, 2021
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Medicare Local Coverage Determination for epidural steroid injections has been updated and expanded. The policy now covers cervical, thoracic, and lumbar injections (previously lumbar only) under new LCD L39036, replacing the old lumbar-specific LCD L35937.
Action Required
Immediately: Update billing system to reference new LCD L39036 for all epidural steroid injection claims (cervical, thoracic, and lumbar). Ensure the listed CPT codes are only billed for pain management, not maternity delivery or surgical anesthesia. Review and update any internal documentation or prior authorization forms that reference the old LCD L35937.