Availity Transition Update:
Effective August 15, 2008, all Blue Cross and Blue Shield electronic files (ERA, EPS and UPP) will be transitioned to the Availity platform. Availity is now receiving the BCBS electronic files as a pass through from the old THIN platform to the Availity platform. However, after this transition date BCBS files will only be available through Availity. To minimize your impact we are encouraging you to enroll with Availity as soon as possible, if you have not already done so.

Transition Exceptions:
There are some contractual exceptions to this transition. If you have not been contacted by BCBSIL, you will be part of the migration process. With the migration, there will be changes in the ISA and GS segments that will directly impact the way the 835 remits will be created. The file naming convention for delivery of files will also be changed. Please check the Availity Web site and work with your vendor/clearinghouse in preparation for the necessary changes.

All inquiries regarding missing files, reinserts, etc., should be directed to Availity at 1-800-282-4548 or visit their Web site at www.availity.com. Note: BCBS file content issues and concerns should be directed to the E-Commerce Center at 1-800-746-4614.

Example of the Illinois Differences:

Example before Migration:
ISA*00*  *00*  *ZZ*G00121 and/or G00621  *ZZ*EISP000000 *080318*0440*U*00401*000000101*0*P*:~

GS*HP*HCSCBS or HCSCBD*EISP000000*20080318*0000*1*X*004010X091A1~

Example after Migration:
ISA*00*  *00*  *01*030240928  *ZZ*AV09311993  *080324*2230*U*00401*100054761*0*T*:~

GS*HP*00121 and/or 00621*AV01101957*20080324*223031*1134*X*004010X091A1~