CommercialPrior AuthHigh impact
New skilled nursing facility admission request process
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island·RI · Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Practice +1 more·Physician
Effective date
May 1, 2019
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBSRI has implemented a new streamlined admission request process for skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Prior authorization is now required before any member can be admitted to a SNF, with authorization valid for only 72 hours.
Action Required
Immediately: All providers must obtain BCBSRI authorization before admitting any member to a skilled nursing facility. Use the request form in the Provider Portal under 'Coordination of Patient Care.' Authorization is only valid for 72 hours - if patient is not admitted within that timeframe, submit a new request. Do not admit patients without receiving the authorization number as this will likely result in coverage denial.