In conjunction with our recent announcement, and consistent with OHIC guidance, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) is working diligently to update its policies to cover expanded telemedicine services by all in-network providers, without cost sharing. These services will be covered at 100% of the in-person fee schedule. These policies will be effective retroactively to March 18th. BCBSRI will issue policies as soon as possible and appreciate your patience.

Once finalized, BCBSRI will issue updated policies on its website, https://www.bcbsri.com/providers/ and provide network providers with notice via Alerts and Updates. This review and notification will include all aspects of coding, billing, reimbursement and allowable provider types for both telemedicine and telephone services.

At this time, BCBSRI asks that providers hold claims for any telemedicine and telephone services until they review BCBSRI’s updated policies to ensure that the filing of such claims are in compliance with BCBSRI’s updated policies. This will likely reduce the need for any rebilling of claims and/or adjustments of claims. We appreciate our providers’ cooperation and understanding in these unprecedented times. BCBSRI assures its providers that we are working diligently to communicate the necessary information in a timely manner. As always, BCBSRI appreciates your participation in its network and the services you provide our customers.