procedure code 22551 — prior authorization under Blue Cross Blue Shield
Billing code 22551 · Category: surgical
In our reference, this procedure typically requires prior authorization.
Typical turnaround is 14 day(s); Blue Cross Blue Shield's
standard turnaround is 14 calendar days (72 hours if urgent).
How to submit
Availity portal, State BCBS portal
Documentation typically required
MRI cervical spine
Neurology consult
PT/chiropractic records
Common reasons this gets denied
Conservative therapy < 6 weeks
No neurological deficit documented
Blue Cross Blue Shield-specific notes
PA requirements vary by state BCBS plan
BlueCard program — out-of-area may need host plan PA
FEP has own PA requirements
Many state plans use AIM/eviCore for imaging
Coverage limits: this page does not confirm authorization for any specific member's plan, and does not cover state-specific plan variants, out-of-network requests, or every payer x procedure pair in existence. For a definitive answer, contact Blue Cross Blue Shield directly using the submission method above.
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