Medicare AdvantagePrior AuthHigh impact
BCBSRI suspending certain prior authorizations
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI·Physician / Facility
Effective date
Dec 1, 2020
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI is temporarily suspending prior authorization requirements for urgent/emergent inpatient care, long-term acute care, acute inpatient rehabilitation, and skilled nursing services during COVID-19. However, notification requirements within 48 hours of admission and discharge still apply to ensure proper claims processing.
Action Required
Immediately: Continue submitting admission and discharge notifications within 48 hours even though prior authorization is suspended. Use portal for inpatient admissions, call (401) 272-5670 for acute rehab notifications, and fax SNF admissions to (401) 459-1623 by day 3. Failure to notify will prevent authorization records from being created and may result in claim denials. Note: Elective hospital procedures still require prior authorization.