CommercialPrior AuthMedium impact
Hospital Transfers
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming·WY · Emergency Medicine·Prior Authorization
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
BCBSWY is relaxing prior authorization requirements for hospital transfers during COVID-19 pandemic to reduce administrative burden. Non-emergent transfers for staffing/bed availability concerns will be covered with retroactive authorization allowed within 5 days of admission (does not apply to FEP members who still need pre-authorization for SNF admissions).
Action Required
Immediately: For BCBSWY hospital transfers related to COVID-19 staffing/bed concerns, billing team can process claims without prior authorization but must ensure receiving facility contacts BCBSWY within 5 days of admission for retroactive authorization. Continue requiring pre-authorization for all FEP member SNF admissions. Update staff to distinguish between BCBSWY and FEP members for transfer authorization requirements.