MedicaidPrior AuthMedium impact
Extending the temporary suspension of commitment letter requirement for orthognathic surgery
Washington Apple Health·WA · Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Dentistry·Provider Alert
Effective date
Dec 22, 2022
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Washington State Health Care Authority is extending the temporary suspension of the commitment letter requirement for orthognathic surgery through March 31, 2023. Providers still need prior authorization for orthodontic treatment but no longer need to submit a commitment letter from an oral surgeon during this extended period.
Action Required
By March 31, 2023: Orthodontic and oral surgery providers should continue current workflow of submitting prior authorization requests for orthodontic treatment requiring orthognathic surgery WITHOUT including commitment letters from oral surgeons. Update billing procedures to reflect the extended suspension period and prepare to reinstate commitment letter requirements after March 31, 2023.