We’re temporarily allowing direct-line ABA interventions to be performed via telemedicine

During the COVID-19 crisis and until further notice, we’re temporarily allowing providers to perform direct-line ABA interventions (CPT code *97153) through telemedicine for dates of service on or after Aug. 3, 2020.

See the new Guidelines for ABA services delivered via telemedicine document for guidance on determining which members can benefit from direct-line ABA interventions performed via telemedicine.

We updated the following documents to reflect this change:

• Telehealth for behavioral health providers
• Telehealth procedure codes for COVID-19
• Temporary changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic

You can find these documents on our public website at bcbsm.com/coronavirus and through Provider Secured Services.

To check whether a member has an autism benefit, follow the instructions on these documents:

• Checking Blue Cross eligibility and autism benefits. Log in to Provider Secured Services, click on Blue Cross Provider Publications and Resources, click on Clinical Criteria & Resources, then click on Autism (in the Resources section). Finally, click to open the document.
• Checking BCN eligibility and autism benefits on web-DENIS. Log in to Provider Secured Services, click on BCN Provider Publications and Resources, then  click on Autism. Finally, click to open the document.

For authorization requirements related to autism services for various lines of business, refer to the Summary of utilization management programs for Michigan providers.