Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) encourages providers to use the Care Affiliate portal within Blue e to manage prior authorizations more efficiently across all lines of business. This includes for behavioral health services.

Through the Care Affiliate portal within Blue e, providers can submit requests for inpatient, outpatient, and ongoing behavioral health services while gaining real-time visibility into authorization status and determinations.

Key Portal Features

Some of the key portal features that will help providers streamline administrative burden include:

Precheck

Verify whether a service requires prior authorization before submitting a request.

• If prior authorization is not required, print a confirmation for your records.
• If authorization is required through another process, you'll be directed to the appropriate next step.

Cite AutoAuth

Receive an immediate authorization decision for select services, often within seconds, eliminating the need for phone calls or faxes.

Comprehensive Authorization Management

Using the Care Affiliate portal within Blue e, providers can manage the full authorization process in one location:

• Upload clinical documentation
• Request authorization extensions
• Track authorization status
• View determination letters

Best Practice Reminders

To help ensure timely processing and avoid unnecessary delays:

• Submit all applicable services and codes for the full scope of care.
• Include complete clinical information with your request.
• Review submissions for accuracy before finalizing.

Benefits of Complete Submissions

Accurate and complete requests can help:

• Reduce delays and minimize resubmissions
• Support faster authorization decisions
• Promote continuity of care for patients
• Improve administrative efficiency for your practice

Training and Support

For assistance with the Care Affiliate portal within Blue e or to request training, contact the Utilization Management Provider team at ElectronicAuthorizationSupportTeam@bcbsnc.com.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to delivering quality care to our members.