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Important Prior Authorization Updates: Effective Apr. 1, 2026

 

As part of our ongoing work to improve the prior authorization (PA) process for both providers and members, Wellcare wants to share some important updates to our PA requirements. Our goal is to reduce administrative burden, simplify submission and approval processes, and facilitate timely access to appropriate, high-quality care.

 

 Code change details can be found below. These changes may include:   

  • Removing PA requirements based on criticality of review and clinical need.
  • Creating a more uniform set of prior authorization requirements across our markets and lines of businesses, including adding and changing some PA requirements, to simplify processes, reduce confusion for providers, and support future efforts to expand real-time responses to requests.

 

If you have questions about specific prior authorization codes or how these changes affect your practice, please reach out to your local Provider Engagement representative.

 

 Service Category  PA Rule  Services  Procedure Codes 
 DME Services

 

No PA Required for PAR providers

 Beds  E0185
 Orthotic & Prosthetic  L1951

 Supplies and Devices

 E0486
 Drug Codes  No PA Required for PAR providers  Medications  J1096
 Genetic Analysis  No PA Required for PAR providers  Genetic Testing  81240, 81256
 Physician Services  No PA Required for PAR providers  Other Services  G3002
 Skin Procedures  PA Required  Muscle Flap Procedures  15734, 15736, 15738
 Surgery Procedures  No PA Required for PAR providers  Surgery-Nervous System  64718, 64719
 Vision Services  No PA Required for PAR providers  Vision Evaluation  92004
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Y0020_WCM_178064E_M Last Updated On: 11/10/2025
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