Employer Update: October 9, 2026

Jim earned his juris doctor from the University of Toledo College of Law and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.

Jim’s initial focus upon joining BCBSNE will be connecting with employer group clients and broker partners, several of whom he knew during his time at Ameritas.

Coverage requirements for certain pediatric autoimmune disorders take effect Jan. 1

You’re invited to join BluCoverage requirements for certain pediatric autoimmune disorders take effect Jan. 1
In April, the Nebraska State Legislature passed Legislative Bill 762, which requires fully-insured and non-ERISA self-funded plans to cover the treatment of certain pediatric autoimmune disorders, effective Jan. 1, 2027.

Covered conditions include:

• Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS)
• Pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with a Group A streptococcal infection (PANDAS)

Treatments must be recommended by the patient's licensed physician and can include, but are not limited to, antibiotics, medication and behavioral therapies to manage neuropsychiatric symptoms, plasma exchange and immunoglobulin. Medical policies will apply. 

Coverage is required for dependent children through age 19.

What this change means for you

• Fully-insured and non-ERISA self-funded plans: No action is required. BCBSNE will update your coverage to follow the state mandate, effective Jan. 1, 2027.
• ERISA self-funded plans: Compliance is optional. Let your account management team know if you'd like to opt in or out of coverage by Oct. 28 for Jan. 1, 2027, coverage or upon renewal. 

What is PANS and PANDAS?

• PANS is a class of acute-onset obsessive-compulsive or tic disorders or other behavioral changes in a child or adolescent that are not otherwise explained by another known neurologic or medical disorder. 
• PANDAS is a condition in which a Group A streptococcal infection in a child or adolescent causes the abrupt onset of obsessions, compulsions, tics or other neuropsychiatric symptoms or behavioral changes or a relapsing and remitting course of symptom severity.

Questions? Please contact your account management team.