CommercialCoverageHigh impact
Policy Criteria Changes
Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield·AR · Oncology, Hematology, Ophthalmology +3 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Dec 1, 2025
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Arkansas Blue Cross updated preferred and non-preferred drug lists for multiple specialty medications including cancer treatments, eye injections, and biosimilar drugs. Most changes take effect January 1, 2026, with one Brentuximab coverage update effective December 1, 2025.
Action Required
Before December 1, 2025: Update prior authorization processes for Brentuximab (Adcetris) with new coverage criteria for anaplastic large cell lymphoma and large B-cell lymphoma. Before January 1, 2026: Update billing system to reflect new preferred/non-preferred drug lists for Ustekinumab biosimilars, ophthalmic VEGF inhibitors, white blood cell growth factors, Rituximab, Trastuzumab, Eculizumab, and Infliximab. Verify patient insurance coverage and obtain prior authorization for non-preferred products. Claims may be denied without proper authorization.