Anthem wants its members to avoid hospital imaging services and instead opt for a cheaper alternative at a freestanding facility.
Hospitals will need to submit a precertification request for any patient receiving an MRI or CT scan at the hospital. The imaging service will only be covered at the hospital if Anthem deems the request medically necessary.
The policy took effect July 1 in Indiana, Wisconsin, Missouri and Kentucky. On Sept. 1, the policy will expand into Ohio.
The insurer has not disclosed the amount of money it expects to save or what prompted the policy change, according to the report.
To learn more about the change in policy, read the FAQ from Anthem.
More articles on payer issues:
BCBS of North Carolina to drop grandfathered health plans; 50k affected
Anthem expands discretionary ED coverage policy to Indiana
MemorialCare Health System back in-network with Anthem Blue Cross
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
