May 9, 2025 (Updated June 9, 2025)
The BlueApprovR utilization management tool will soon be integrated with Availity Authorizations at Availity Essentials. The new configuration will continue to expedite approvals for behavioral health services. For all requests other than behavioral health, the BlueApprovR functionality will not be available until later in the year.
What’s changing: BlueApprovR, available for requests for many of our commercial members, will be disabled in Availity Payer Spaces in June 2025 and incorporated into the Availity Authorizations tool.
How to access and submit prior authorizations online:
- In Availity, select Patient Registration from the navigation menu, then Authorizations & Referral
- On the Authorizations & Referrals page, select Authorization Requests
Training sessions: Weekly instructor-led training is available for you to learn how to electronically submit your request via Availity. Select your preferred date and time to register. You must be a current Availity user to register and attend these training sessions.
Check eligibility and benefits: Member benefits vary, based on the service being rendered and individual and group policy elections. Always check eligibility and benefits first through Availity or your preferred web vendor. This step will confirm coverage and other important details, such as prior authorization requirements and utilization management vendors, if applicable.
Learn more about utilization management review, requirements and submission.
Continue to watch News and Updates for future program updates and training opportunities.
Checking eligibility and/or benefit information and/or obtaining prior authorization is not a guarantee of payment. Benefits will be determined once a claim is received and will be based upon, among other things, the member’s eligibility and the terms of the member’s certificate of coverage, including, but not limited to, exclusions and limitations applicable on the date services were rendered. If you have any questions, call the number on the member's ID card.
Availity is a trademark of Availity, LLC, a separate company that operates a health information network to provide electronic information exchange services to medical professionals. Availity provides administrative services to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois. BCBSIL makes no endorsement, representations or warranties regarding third party vendors and the products or services they offer.