Prior Authorization

Codes that require Prior Authorization

A list of codes that require prior authorization are available on our Online Prior Authorization Search Tool.

Learn more about our prior authorization process

Mercy Care requires prior authorization for select acute outpatient services and planned hospital admissions. Prior authorization is not required for emergency services. To request a prior authorization, be sure to:

  • Always verify member eligibility prior to providing services.
  • Complete the appropriate authorization form (medical or pharmacy).
  • Attach supporting documentation when submitting. This could include:
    • Recent progress notes documenting the need for the service
    • Lab results
    • Imaging results (x-rays, etc.)
    • Procedure/Surgery reports
    • Notes showing previous treatment tried and failed
    • Specialty notes 

To check on the status of an authorization, you can visit our provider secure web portal. For more information about prior authorization, you can review Mercy Care's Provider Manual.

You can fax your authorization request to 1-800-217-9345.

Important to note:  When checking whether a service requires an authorization under Mercy Care’s Online Prior Authorization Search Tool, please keep in mind that a listed service does not guarantee that the service is covered under the plan’s benefits.  Always check plan benefits first to determine whether the service is covered or not.  

Long-term care services that require prior authorization

SERVICE

Acute hospital admission
(Non-Medicare admission)

Adult Day Health Services

Assisted Living Facility

Attendant Care

Behavioral Health Services

DME/Medical Supplies

Emergency Alert

Habilitation

Home-Delivered Meals

Home Health Agency
Services

Home Modifications

Homemaker Services

Hospice Services (HCBS and
Institutional) [Non
Medicare]

ICF/MR

Medical Care Acute Services

Nursing Facility Services

Personal Care

Respite Care (in-home)

Respite Care (Institutional)

Therapies

Transportation

PCP ORDERS

X

x

x

x

x

x

x

N/A

X

X

X

X

CASE MANAGEMENT
AUTHORIZATION

x

x

x

x

x

X

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

N/A

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

When you request prior authorization for a Mercy Care member, we’ll review it and get back to you according to the following timeframes:

  • Routine – 14 calendar days upon receipt of request.
  • Urgent – 72 hours upon receipt of request. An urgent request is appropriate for a non-life-threatening condition, which if not treated promptly, will result in a worsened or more complicated patient condition. We encourage you to call the Prior Authorization department at 602-263-3000 for all urgent requests.