What's New in the AHCCCS Medical Policy Manual
July 2008 Updates

To gain access to zip files that contain Portable Document Format (PDF) versions of ONLY the chapters that changed for the July 2008 updates, use the link below:

Zip Files of Changed Pages (PDFs) - July 2008 Updates

Note: If you do not have a Zip File program, such as WinZip or PKZip, use the links in the table below to print the individual changed pages.

July 2008 Updates

There are several policy changes for the month of July.

Reminder - Date Format Change

Please note we have initiated a revision in the format of the AMPM. We are relocating the policy revision dates from the bottom of each page to the beginning of each policy. We believe this will allow readers to better identify when a policy has been modified. We will implement the new revision to date formats as we review policy. Therefore, we will have more than one format until we have completed our review of the Manual.

Chapter 300

The format of Chapter 300 has been revised to correspond to the format previously adopted for the AMPM. This is a technical correction not a change in policy. Note each section of the policy is now specifically identified by an alpha numeric designation.

Additionally, there are two changes to policy.

Policy 310—Q, Non-Physician First Surgical Assistant Services
Policy has been modified to allow RNs who have completed their formal RNFA program to register with AHCCCS as a non-physician surgical first assistant. The prior requirement that these RNs have “CRNFA” certification has been removed. This modification was made to allow qualified RNs to register with AHCCCS as a non-physician surgical first assistant prior to completion of 2,000 hours of practice as an RNFA. Individuals with questions related to this Policy should contact Albert Escobedo at 602-417-4562.

Policy 320-D, Cochlear Implantation
Policy has been modified to clarify when repair and or replacement of internal or external components is covered. An example of when repair or replacement is covered is when the device is no longer functional or the used component compromises the member's safety. Individuals with questions related to this policy should contact Maureen Sharp at 602-417-4627.

Chapter 1200, Policy 1250

The ALTCS Adult Dental Benefit has been suspended effective 6/30/2008. This program was initially approved for one year and was not renewed. Individuals with questions related to this policy should contact Alan Schafer at 602-417-4614.

Chapter 1600

Policy has been revised to remove references to the ALTCS Adult Dental Benefit which has been suspended.

Perform the following steps to update your AMPM (Select for a PDF version of the July 2008 "What's New" memo.)

Should you have any questions regarding this months updates, or for any other Medical Policy-related questions, please contact Maureen Sharp at (602) 417-4627 for assistance.

Persons interested in obtaining older policy, or requiring technical assistance, may contact Astrid Roll at (602) 417-4053.