Posted in #reimbursement, NY Providers, Prior Authorization Insurance Carrier Updates, Training

FidelisCare-concurrent prior auth update for family and group therapy services.

This update will apply to any dos of Jan 1, 2026 and thereafter.

This update does not apply to SUD services/ providers that are certified as Article 32.

29-I providers are also excluded from the concurrent prior authorization requirenments.


Services affected:

Family Psychotherapy – CPT Code 90847

Group Psychotherapy – CPT Code 90853   

FidelisCare members have 30 visits per code/per calendar year.*

*Calendar year is defined as Jan 1st to Dec 31st


After the initial 30 visits the provider will have to submit a concurrent authorization request using the Family and Group Psychotherapy Form along with additional required information: (partial list)

1.Member and provider information, such as Member Full Name, ID and Date of Birth, Provider ID/TIN and Servicing Address
2. Type of service requested & CPT codes (Family Psychotherapy 90847 or Group Psychotherapy 90853)
3. First service date
4. Duration and intensity of requested services
5. Clinical goals, objectives, and rationale
6. Place of service (e.g. office)


7. A treatment plan with measurable goals
8. Recent progress notes
9. Recent psychiatric evaluation/biopsychosocial


In addition, please include the following:

1. How well does the individual cope with adversity, use supports, and community resources? 

2. Treatment & Recovery History

3. Engagement in Services and Recovery Status: Is member engaged in treatment?


How soon should the providers submit the concurrent authorization request?

Up to 30 days in advance of the 30th visit.


For a full list of required information please visit click here for FAQs.


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Posted in #aetna, #Medicareadvantage, #reimbursement, NY Providers, Prior Authorization Insurance Carrier Updates, Training

Aetna Medicare Advantage: reminder- certain post acute, skilled nursing and home health require pre- approval

This change applies to the providers located in the following states:

NJ, NY, PA, VW


The pre-apporoval applies to some post-acute , skilled nursing, and home health services.


The following HCPCS are affected:

  • G0151: Services performed by a qualified physical therapist in the home health or hospice setting, each 15 minutes.
  • G0153: Services performed by a qualified speech-language pathologist in the home health or hospice setting, each 15 minutes.
  • G0155: Services of a clinical social worker in home health or hospice settings, each 15 minutes. 
  • All the codes until G0162

As well as the following codes:

G0299- Direct skilled nursing services of a Registered Nurse (RN) in the home health or hospice setting, each 15 minutes.

G0300-Direct skilled nursing services of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the home health or hospice setting, each 15 minutes.


G0463- Skilled services by a Registered Nurse (RN) for observing and assessing a patient’s condition.

G0496- Skilled services by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for training or educating a patient or family member.


Inpatient Revenue code:

128- daily medical management, skilled rehab services, and regular physician (MD/NP/PA) oversight for intensive rehab patients


Skilled Nursing levels: 1,2,3,4.


Pre-auth process:

1. Go to EviCore.

2.Call 1-888-622-7329 during normal business hours.

3.Fax a request form to 866-705-3574 (Aetna Home Health), 855-633-8631 (AETNA PAC Initial) or 877- 502-0810 (AETNA PAC Concurrent)

For any urgent requess, when  member requires services in less than 48 hours, please call eviCore.


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Posted in #reimbursement, HealthFirst, NY Providers, Prior Authorization Insurance Carrier Updates

Healthfirst removes some procedures off the prior auth list (2026)

For any DOS on Jan 1, 2026 and there after, Healthfirst will remove prior auth requirenment from the EviCore prior auth list.

Image via Healthfirst website

Please remember that member benefits (coverage vs non coverage) still applies.


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