December 2021
2021 Reminder to Encourage Early and Timely Intervention for Pre- and Post-natal Care
This article includes important information to help you when providing pre- and post-natal care and services to Federal Employee Program® (FEP®) members.
Communication between health care professionals during a patient’s pre-pregnancy, pregnancy and postpartum medical journey is important. When you’re providing care, we encourage you to document the following information in the patient’s chart to help ensure effective coordination and continuity of care:
Prenatal Visit in First Trimester
- Prenatal risk assessment, including the diagnosis of pregnancy, complete medical and obstetrical history, and physical exam as referenced in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) form
- Prenatal lab reports Ultrasound, estimated date of delivery (EDD)
- Documentation of prenatal risk and education/counseling
Postpartum
- Documentation of a postpartum visit on or between 7 to 84 days after delivery. Postpartum office visit progress notation that documents comprehensive postpartum exam which may include an evaluation of weight, blood pressure, breast exam, abdominal exam, and pelvic exam.
- Best practice supports provider staff calling member within one week after delivery to schedule postpartum follow-up visit.
Thank you for your help supporting continuity of care and improved quality outcomes for our FEP and other BCBSIL members.
The information in this article is being provided for educational purposes only and is not the provision of medical care or advice. Physicians and other health care providers are to their own best medical judgment based upon all available information and the condition of the patient in determining the best course of treatment. The fact that a service or treatment is described in this material is not a guarantee that the service or treatment is a covered benefit and members should refer to their certificate of coverage for more details, including benefits, limitations, and exclusions. Regardless of benefits, the final decision about any service or treatment is between the member and their health care provider.
Information provided by BCBSIL is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the independent medical judgment of a physician or other health care provider, nor is the information presented intended to replace or supersede any requirements set forth in your contract with BCBSIL. Any samples in this communication are for illustrative and/or educational purposes only and should not be relied on in determining how a specific provider will be reimbursed. In the event of a conflict between the information in this communication and your contract, your contract will control.