Beginning August 1, 2025, CoverMyMeds, a platform that has been widely used for medication prior authorizations, will no longer be accepted for Independence Blue Cross (IBX) members. Instead, all electronic prior authorizations (ePA) for IBX patients must be submitted through Surescripts™. Optum Rx has notified providers that Surescripts is the now preferred platform.
Transitioning to Surescripts for ePA Submissions
To ensure continuity in ePA processing, providers are encouraged to sign up for Surescripts as soon as possible, preferably prior to August 1. While this change may require some initial adjustments, Surescripts offers features designed to streamline the process:
- Quick sign-up: Registering for Surescripts takes approximately 10 minutes.
- Enhanced security: Surescripts uses CLEAR identity proofing with biometric technology and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to ensure secure access to
the portal. - No major workflow changes: The core ePA process remains the same, with Surescripts handling submissions instead of CoverMyMeds.
Providers can still complete a prior authorization form and fax all supporting medical information for each prescription to the pharmacy benefit manager at 1-888-671-5285 or call 1-888-678-7012 (Commercial) or 1-888-678-7015 (Medicare Advantage).
As a reminder, certain medications require approval to confirm medical necessity, including dosing review, alternatives, and potential interactions. Coverage for some drugs on the formulary may also be limited based on the member's prescription benefit plan and claims exceeding $10,000 require prior authorization. The only change to the current ePA process is that Surescripts will handle the submissions.
Additional information
Visit the Pharmacy Resource Page to stay up to date on the latest pharmacy communications for providers.
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