Blue Review
A Provider Publication

September 2022

Coming Soon: Use Our Automated Phone System to Request Prior Authorization for FEP® Members

Starting Oct. 15, 2022, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) interactive voice response (IVR) system will offer the option to request prior authorization for some services for Federal Employee Program® (FEP) members.

Through our IVR, you’ll be able to initiate the prior authorization process for some inpatient and outpatient services for FEP members.

You’ll also be able to use the IVR to:

  • Check the status of an existing prior authorization
  • Get an extension for an existing prior authorization

Exceptions: Use your existing prior authorization request process for behavioral health and chemical dependency services for FEP members. The IVR will not accommodate prior authorization requests for these services for FEP members.

Remember: You can check eligibility and benefits first via Availity® Essentials, before rendering care and services to BCBSIL members. This step confirms membership and other important details, such as prior authorization requirements. Not registered with Availity? Sign up online now at no cost. For more information, refer to the Availity Eligibility and Benefits User Guide. 

To access the IVR system: Call BCBSIL Provider Services at 800-972-8088. For help navigating the IVR, refer to this caller guide.

Checking eligibility and/or benefit information and/or obtaining prior authorization is not a guarantee of payment. Benefits will be determined once a claim is received and will be based upon, among other things, the member’s eligibility, and the terms of the member’s certificate of coverage, including, but not limited to, exclusions and limitations applicable on the date services were rendered. If you have any questions, call the number on the member's ID card.

Availity is a trademark of Availity, LLC, a separate company that operates a health information network to provide electronic information exchange services to medical professionals. Availity provides administrative services to BCBSIL. BCBSIL makes no endorsement, representations or warranties regarding third party vendors and the products and services offered by them.