If you are a Cigna insurance member, you may have encountered a Cigna pre auth form. Although it can seem confusing at first, or just an additional form to complete, it is actually a valuable component to consider when confirming coverage of your medical treatment and procedures.
In simplest terms, this is a means for your doctor to secure prior authorization (or a pre approval) from Cigna that you are eligible to receive a specific service (test, medication, etc.). In short, this process protects you from potentially unforeseen bills and provides you care.
Let’s go over what it is for, how to think it through, and how to get it. Also, to understand what is Pre Auth mean, you can read this article as well.
What Is A Cigna Pre Auth Form?
A Cigna pre auth form (also called Cigna pre authorization form) is a request your doctor submits to Cigna (the insurance company) before authorization can happen on certain medical services, treatments, or medications. Think of it as a green light your insurance company gives, so you can be confident that the care you are about to receive is a covered service.
If pre authorization is warranted, and you do not have it, the claim will be worked and then denied, and you will have to pay for it out of pocket. Checking first is always preferable!
Why Does Cigna Require Pre Authorization?
Cigna utilizes pre-authorization to determine if the treatment is medically necessary and satisfies the plan’s coverage criteria. Treatment for which pre-authorization will be required commonly includes expensive tests (eg. MRI), surgical procedures, and certain medications in specific circumstances. If a treatment requires pre-authorization, the medical provider completes a Utilization Management cigna pre auth form (often Cigna Healthcare Pre Authorization form) and submits it. The pre-authorization request is a benefit to both the patient and the provider in that it serves as a way to reduce future out-of-pocket expenses for the patient while ensuring they receive treatment specific to their medical issue. All plans are different and it is still important to confirm the provider is in-coverage when obtaining pre-authorization.
How to Obtain Cigna’s Medical Pre Authorization Form
The effort involved in obtaining the Cigna medical pre authorization form is not as daunting as it sounds. You can:
1. Ask your doctor – Many providers complete and submit Cigna pre-authorization paperwork on your behalf.
2. Check Cigna’s website – Cigna has it as a link for direct download to cover their medical pre-authorization forms online.
3. Call Cigna customer service – They’ll guide you to the right form or fax/email address for submission.
Just make sure the form includes accurate details like your Cigna ID, the doctor’s information, and the reason for the treatment — missing information can slow things down.
Different Types of Cigna Preauthorization Forms
There are various types of cigna pre authorization forms.
They all are cigna pre auth form depending on what you need approval for, such as:
- Surgical procedures or inpatient hospital stays.
- Imaging studies (MRI’s, CT’s, etc.).
- Medications.
- Equipment.
- Specialty/training.
If you are not sure if your service needs a preauthorization, refer to their website or consult your provider.
How to Access the Cigna Pre Authorization Form
You can access the Cigna Pre Authorization Form download through their website, ensuring that you choose the accurate form based on your plan–if it’s an employer plan, Medicare, or individual insurance.
Conclusion
While a Cigna preauth form may seem inconsequential in the moment, down the line you could save yourself a bigger headache. By submitting this form before your treatment, you will know if it will be covered, and it saves you the potential of an unexpected expense.
If you are ever unsure of which Cigna medical pre authorization form to use,or how to download Cigna pre authorization form, you will be able to get assistance from your doctor’s office or Cigna’s customer service department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
1. Where can I find the form to receive a Cigna preauthorization?
The Cigna preauthorization form can be obtained from the Cigna Company website. Just remember to select the correct version for your plan, whether it be an employer-based benefit plan, an individual coverage plan or if you are a Medicare member.
2. What happens if I did not receive a preauthorization prior to receiving the treatment?
If a preauthorization is required under Cigna and you did not get one, your claim may get denied, therefore you will be responsible for the entire cost of that service. For your own peace of mind, it is always better to get a preauthorization.
3. Can I see what is in the status of my preauthorization request?
Certainly. You can log in to your Cigna member account on the online site, or call customer service for a status, or even have your doctor’s office check on your behalf.
4. Is a preauthorization the same as a referral?
Not exactly. A referral is given by your primary care doctor and the preauthorization is, the preauthorization is a grant of authorization by Cigna. You may need one or both depending on your health plan.
5. Are there various Cigna preauthorization forms for different plans?
Yes. Cigna has different preauthorization forms for different levels.
