Prior Authorization
Some covered services or medications may need approval from Meridian, this is called a Prior Authorization (PA). You do not need a paper referral from Meridian to see a provider, but your provider may need to request a prior authorization from Meridian for a service to be approved.
The recently passed Prior Authorization Reform Act is helping us make our services even better. This bill took effect January 1, 2022.
Our prior authorization process will see many improvements. We will be more clear with processes. And we will reduce wait times for things like tests or surgeries. You will also see improved fairness with our PA process.
Our current PA process is NCQA certified. It meets many of the new law's standards. However, we see this as a time to continue improving our services.
For clinical criteria, please see the information linked below. To request PA information or receive additional support, please contact us at memberservices.mi@centene.com or 1-888-437-0606 (TTY: 711).
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
No, you do not need a referral from your PCP to see a specialist. You do not need a referral for routine vision care, chiropractic services, or mental health/counseling services.
Below is a list of services that require prior authorization from Meridian before your healthcare provider can proceed with treatment.
| Services that require a Prior Authorization | Prior Authorization Required for some or all of the Services |
| Abortions | Yes |
| Asthma Supplies | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Birth Control | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Circumcisions | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Diabetes Care | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Diagnostic Testing Urinalysis and Urine Cultures | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Diagnostic Testing Urinalysis and Urine Cultures | Yes |
| Durable Medical Equipment (Wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, etc.) | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Eye Care and Eyeglasses | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Genetic Testing | Yes |
| Hearing Aids | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Home Health Care | Yes |
| Hospice Care | Yes |
| Immunizations & Vaccines (shots) | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Inpatient Rehabilitation | Yes |
| Long Term Acute Care Hospital | Yes |
| Medical Inpatient Care | Yes |
| Medical Supplies | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Miscellaneous, unlisted, or no other specified procedures | Yes |
| Non-emergent Out of State Care | Yes |
| Non-emergent, Inpatient, Ambulatory, Outpatient, Emergency and Reconstructive Surgeries | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Obstetric and Maternity Care | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Pain Management Injections | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Prescription and Over the Counter (OTC) Drugs | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Prosthetics/Orthotics | Some items may require prior authorization |
| Radiology Services (X-rays) | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Rehabilitative/Habilitative Services and Devices | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Skilled Nursing Facility | Yes |
| Specialty care (office visits and clinics) | Some services may require prior authorization |
| Specialty Care (Office Visits and Clinics) | Yes |
| Transplants | Yes |
| Weight Management (WM) | Yes |
This list of benefits and exclusions may not be a complete list. More benefits not listed here may be available. Limits and exclusions may apply to each item on this list. Your Certificate of Coverage (COC) has the complete list of covered care. If you want a printed copy of the COC or have questions regarding your benefits, contact Member Services.