Starting Feb. 1, 2025, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield will cap coverage for anesthesia services based on surgery duration in New York, Missouri, and Connecticut. The insurer will use CMS Physician Work Time values to determine the maximum allowable time, requiring patients to pay out of pocket if surgeries exceed the set limit.
Exemptions include patients under 22 and those needing maternity care.
The announcement has sparked backlash, with Governor Kathy Hochul calling the decision “outrageous” and vowing to protect New Yorkers. Anthem BCBS has indicated more details will be shared soon.
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