Kentucky Announces Updated Guidance for Prior Authorizations

On February 1, 2021, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services announced that effective February 1, Kentucky Medicaid Fee-for-Service (FFS) and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) will not require prior authorizations (PAs) for all inpatient Medicaid services provided by Kentucky Medicaid enrolled inpatient hospitals.  Additionally, FFS and MCOs will not require PAs for Medicaid covered substance use and behavioral health services.  PAs may still be required for outpatient and other Medicaid services, except for individuals with a COVID diagnosis.  This guidance will remain in effect until March 31, 2021.  DMS will re-evaluate this guidance at the end of February and give 30 days’ notice of any changes.