QualCare Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine) prior authorization requirements (2026)

What QualCare generally requires to approve Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine) (CPT 22857, 22860, 22862, 22865), for commercial plans. Yes. QualCare generally requires prior authorization for Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine) (CPT 22857, 22860, 22862, 22865).

General reference compiled from public sources, last verified 2026-06-26. This is not a coverage determination or medical advice. Always confirm current requirements with QualCare before submitting.

Medical-necessity criteria QualCare generally applies

Prior authorization via eviCore (Cigna CMM-610). Age 18-60; single-level L3-S1; FDA-approved disc; no hybrid fusion; no facet ankylosis; moderate-to-severe single-level DDD; at least 6 months failed conservative care.

Diagnoses that commonly support medical necessity

ICD-10-CM diagnoses frequently associated with medical necessity for Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine). Confirm the covered diagnosis list against the current QualCare policy.

M51.36Other intervertebral disc degeneration, lumbar regionM51.26Other intervertebral disc displacement, lumbar region

How to submit

Sources & verification

  • BindingSource — Cigna CMM-610 Lumbar Total Disc Arthroplasty (CMM-610) · effective 2024-11-01.View

Binding = the payer's own policy. Proxy = a public, evidence-based clinical guideline the payer mirrors. Portal-only = the binding criteria are confirmed in the administrator's portal. Always confirm against the payer for the member's specific plan. Last verified 2026-06-26.

Frequently asked questions

Does QualCare require prior authorization for Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine)?

Yes. QualCare generally requires prior authorization for Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine) (CPT 22857, 22860, 22862, 22865).

What does QualCare require to approve Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine)?

Prior authorization via eviCore (Cigna CMM-610). Age 18-60; single-level L3-S1; FDA-approved disc; no hybrid fusion; no facet ankylosis; moderate-to-severe single-level DDD; at least 6 months failed conservative care. Always confirm against the current QualCare policy.

How long does a QualCare prior authorization take?

Turnaround varies by plan and submission method. Check the QualCare portal for current timeframes.

Submitting Artificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Lumbar Spine) to QualCare?

Praxigen checks your clinical note against these criteria before you submit and drafts a policy-cited appeal if it is denied. You review and submit; nothing is sent automatically.

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Other QualCare prior authorization requirements

Anterior Cervical Discectomy and FusionArthroplasty (Joint Replacement)Arthroscopic Hip Surgery for Impingement Syndrome Including Labral RepairArtificial Intervertebral Disc Surgery (Cervical Spine)Cervical, Lumbar and Thoracic Laminectomy and/or Laminotomy ProceduresDorsal Column (Lumbar) Neurostimulators: Trial or ImplantationKnee ArthroscopyKnee MeniscectomyPain Management ProceduresShoulder Arthroscopy Rotator Cuff RepairSpinal Fusion SurgeryVertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty

Related guides

Why was my prior authorization denied? Top reasons and how to fix eachHow to write a prior authorization appeal that cites policy