Effective Oct. 1, 2009, pre-certification (prior authorization) through ENCOMPASS Health Management Systems is now required for the following outpatient, non-emergency imaging tests when performed for BCBSIL members with City of Chicago group coverage:

• CAT Scans
• MRI Scana
• PET Scans

Claims submitted for these services without prior authorization through ENCOMPASS may be denied. To identify City of Chicago members, look for the CTY alpha prefix on the member's ID card. Group numbers are P17600, P18600, P18601, P20600, P16628, P16642 and P16643.

To pre-certify, physicians or City of Chicago members may contact ENCOMPASS at (800) 373-3727. The "Request for Prior Authorization Review" process also may be completed via the ENCOMPASS Web site.

Note: The American Imaging Management (AIM) Radiology Quality Initiative (RQI) process in no way will substitute for the pre-certification requirement through ENCOMPASS. These pre-certifications apply to all active City of Chicago members. If you have any questions on this program, please contact ENCOMPASS directly.