Cigna Healthcare^® has taken another step forward in our commitment to simplify the care experience for our customers—and for the providers who serve them—by releasing a major enhancement to our online precertification (i.e., prior authorization) tool. As of December 8, users with “Patient Search” entitlement can now submit precertification requests directly on the Cigna for Health Care Professionals (CignaforHCP.com) portal—a capability that helps to streamline workflows and reduce administrative burden.

This update marks a milestone in our broader effort to make it easier for providers to work with us, by simplifying processes and reducing time spent on administrative tasks. Providers can now complete the precertification process—from checking requirements to submitting requests and uploading documentation—all in one secure portal.

What’s new: draft, save, and submit precertification requests

Entitled users can now:

• Draft, save, and submit precertification requests online.
  Enter all necessary clinical and administrative information, save progress as needed, and submit requests directly through the portal.
• Upload supporting documentation.
  Attach relevant files to support a request, helping to streamline the review process and reduce delays.

These new capabilities reduce reliance on phone, fax, and manual processes—making it easier to manage everything in one secure, centralized location.

More ways to manage precertification online

In addition to submission functionality, users continue to benefit from previously released features:

Real-time precertification check

Dashboard view for submitted requests

• View submitted precertification requests. Located under the “Precertification tab” within patient details, the precertification dashboard displays the status of requests submitted by phone, mail, or electronically for the selected patient.

Appeal denied requests directly in the portal

• Submit appeals online for denied precertification requests. If a request is denied, submit an appeal directly within the portal—no need to call or fax.

Resources
An online precertification reference guide is available to help users navigate the tool. It includes tips, answers to frequently asked questions, and step-by-step instructions.  

To access the guide, log in to CignaforHCP.com and go to Resources > Medical Education and Training > Online precertification reference guide.

Contact information
For questions about the precertification process, technical assistance, to report an issue, or help accessing the portal, please contact Provider Services at 800.882.4462.