Health insurer reverses course on anesthesia policy after receiving backlash

Published On Dec 5, 2024, 5:16 PM

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield has decided not to proceed with a controversial policy change regarding anesthesia services after facing significant backlash. The proposed policy aimed to limit payment for anesthesia to a set time frame aligned with operation duration, leading to concerns among providers and advocacy groups like the American Society of Anesthesiologists. Anthem stated that it would clarify its policies but would continue to cover medically necessary anesthesia services without imposing strict time limitations, particularly for certain patient groups such as those under 22 years old and maternity cases.