CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
Surgical Treatment of Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat), Sleep Medicine, Neurology·Physician / Facility
Effective date
Feb 1, 2020
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBS Rhode Island updated their policy to allow hypoglossal nerve stimulation for treating obstructive sleep apnea, but it now requires prior authorization. This expands coverage options for sleep apnea patients while adding an authorization requirement for this specific surgical treatment.
Action Required
Billing team must update prior authorization requirements for hypoglossal nerve stimulation procedures used to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Verify current CPT codes for hypoglossal nerve stimulation in billing system and ensure prior authorization is obtained before scheduling these procedures. Contact BCBS Rhode Island to confirm specific prior auth process for this treatment.