Looking ahead: Improving the Preauthorization Experience
This transition is part of our broader effort to simplify the preauthorization process and enhance the provider experience through a phased, digital-first approach.
Going forward, updates and resources will be shared on our Provider Preauthorization page and through Happening Now. Be sure to check both regularly to stay informed.
We appreciate your continued partnership as we move forward together.
NaviNet® replaces phone and fax intake for prior authorization submissions
What’s happening and when:
Nov. 5, 2025: Use the Universal Prior Authorization Request Form hospice, newborn/NICU and member lookup exceptions.
Nov. 17, 2025: Preauthorization and Precertification requests must be submitted via NaviNet - fax and phone intake end.
Nov. 17, 2025: CoverMyMeds enhances PA process
Dec. 1, 2025: Status available only through digital tools – no Customer Service updates.
This transition reinforces our commitment to faster turnaround times and reduced administrative burden by requiring digital submission.
Submission guidance
Nov. 5 – Hospice, newborn/NICU and member lookup exceptions
Prior authorization requests should be submitted through our online portal. However, there are three exceptions where providers should use the Universal Prior Authorization Request Form.
Hospice services
Newborns needing services who are not yet added to the benefit plan
Member lookup issues (when a member’s information isn’t found in NaviNet)
Out-of-Network or Out-of-State providers
These exceptions help ensure timely processing and support care coordination when digital tools aren’t applicable.
The form will be available on our Provider Preauthorization page, with clear buttons to guide you to the correct option.
Nov. 17 - Preauthorization status available only through digital tools
To support faster service and reduce administrative work, BCBSNE is updating how providers submit and check prior authorization requests.
What’s changing on Nov. 17, 2025:
Fax lines for commercial and FEP PA requests will be retired
Phone intake at 800-247-1103 will be discontinued for:
Inpatient admissions (including NICU)
Outpatient services
Concurrent care extensions
Skilled nursing
Behavioral health admissions
Providers should use our online portal for these requests moving forward.
Dec. 1 – Prior authorization status will only be able using digital tools
NaviNet (if the request was submitted through NaviNet)
Online preauthorization platform, if the form was used
Automated phone system (CSC will not be available)
This change helps streamline processes and ensures faster, more reliable access to information.
Stay informed by checking Happening Now and our Provider Bulletin regularly
As part of our move toward more efficient, digital-first processes, commercial preauthorization fax lines will be retired on November 17, 2025. Please begin transitioning to online submission methods now to avoid disruptions.
Fax lines being retired:
Medical (Outpatient): 1-800-255-2838 or 402-392-4141
Radiology: 1-800-991-5644 or 402-982-8644
Commercial Pre-Cert (Inpatient): 800-821-4788/402-343-3444 and 1-866-422-5120
Note: If you submit a fax before November 17, your response will include a reminder about this change.
Fax lines remaining unchanged for medical records:
Medical records for Appeals (submission of Appeals through the provider portal is preferred)
888-492-4944
402-548-4684
Medical records for Commercial
402-392-4111
800-991-7389
Important: These fax lines are for medical records only. Faxed prior authorization requests will not be processed. Providers will receive a faxed response indicating the request was misrouted.
Note: The retiring fax lines apply only to commercial business. MA providers should continue using the provider portal. MA fax lines, which remain unchanged.
You are receiving this because you are identified as a provider for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska.
NaviNet is a healthcare provider portal providing services for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. CoverMyMeds is an independent platform used to submit prior authorization requests. Coverage decisions are made solely by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska BCBSNE or its pharmacy benefit manager.
