How to Navigate the Appeals Process with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Nova Jude
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
Filing an appeal with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) is a structured process designed to address concerns regarding denied services or claims. Understanding the available avenues and adhering to the specified procedures can enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
When to File an Appeal
You may consider filing an appeal if:
A requested service was denied.
Not all requested services were approved.
A previously approved service is being discontinued.
There are delays in receiving the requested service.
Your appeal can be filed by you, your healthcare provider, a friend, relative, lawyer, or any chosen representative. BCBSTX will reassess your case upon receiving the appeal.
How to File an Appeal
To initiate an appeal, you can:
Submit a Written Appeal: Complete the Health Plan Appeal Request Form, which can be downloaded here. Mail or fax it to the address or fax number listed at the top of the form.
Call the Customer Advocate Department: Reach out toll-free at 1-888-657-6061 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Central Time.
Email: Send your appeal to GPDTXMedicaidAG@bcbsnm.com.
Mail: Address your appeal to:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
Attn: Complaints and Appeals Department
P.O. Box 660717
Dallas, TX 75266-0717
Seek Assistance from a Member Advocate: For help with filing an appeal, contact 1-877-375-9097 (TTY: 711)
Important Timelines
Standard Appeal: Must be filed within 60 days from the date of the denial notice. BCBSTX will provide a decision within 30 days.
Continuation of Services: To continue receiving services during the appeal process, request this within 10 days from the date the denial notice was mailed or from the date services are set to change.
Pharmacy Appeals
For pharmacy-related appeals:
Call: 1-888-657-6061 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Central Time.
Mail: Send a written appeal to:
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
Attn: Prime Therapeutics Appeals Department
2900 Ames Crossing Road
Eagan, MN 55121
Fax: 1-855-212-8110.
Online Submission: Your doctor can submit the appeal through MyPrime.com or CoverMyMeds.com.
Emergency (Expedited) Appeals
If waiting for a standard appeal decision could seriously harm your health, you or your doctor can request an expedited appeal. BCBSTX is required to decide on such appeals within 72 hours of the request.
State Fair Hearings and External Medical Reviews
If your appeal is denied, you have the right to:
Request a State Fair Hearing: This involves the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) reviewing BCBSTX's decision regarding your medical care. You or your representative must request this hearing within 120 days of the internal appeal decision.
Seek an External Medical Review: An Independent Review Organization (IRO) will conduct this review during the appeal process, especially for determinations based on medical necessity. Contact BCBSTX at 1-888-657-6061 (TTY: 711) or the 24-Hour Nurse Advice Line at 1-844-971-8906 for more information.
Contact Information
BCBSTX Customer Advocate Department: 1-888-657-6061 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Central Time.
STAR Member Advocate: 1-877-375-9097 (TTY: 711).
HHSC Office of Ombudsman:
Phone: 1-877-787-8999 (TTY: 1-800-735-2989 or 7-1-1).
Mail: Texas Health and Human Services Commission Office of the Ombudsman MC H-700P, P.O. Box 13247, Austin, TX
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