The SCCMA keeps you up to date on the latest news, policy developments, and events
Wednesday, February 25, 2026
Anthem has extended the pause of its automatic E/M downcoding policy until at least April 1, 2026, while DMHC continues its review following concerns raised by CMA.
Monday, February 23, 2026
UnitedHealthcare has updated the CPT codes eligible for its Gold Card Program, removing certain codes effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Beginning July 1, 2026, DMHC will shorten the time window during which physicians may file provider complaints, reducing the lookback period from four years to 30 months.
Anthem has agreed to temporarily pause its new automatic E/M downcoding policy until March 1, 2026, while DMHC reviews the policy following concerns raised by CMA.
Friday, February 20, 2026
AMA is hosting its 2026 AMPAC Candidate Workshop April 17–19 in Washington, D.C., offering physicians practical training on how to run a successful political campaign. Registration is open, space is limited, and the deadline to apply is March 20.
CMA and Assemblymember Lori Wilson today announced the introduction of AB 2346 to modernize California’s electric bicycle safety standards in response to a sharp rise in serious injuries among children and teenagers.
Assemblymember Darshana Patel has introduced AB 2431, sponsored by CMA, to protect physician practices and patient access to care by prohibiting automatic downcoding by health insurance companies.
Thursday, February 19, 2026
During his first official report to the CMA Board of Trustees in late January, CMA President Dr. René Bravo urged California physicians to step boldly into public leadership, emphasizing that public service has long been central to the profession.
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Beginning June 26, 2026, Medi-Cal Rx will deny pharmacy claims and prior authorizations if the prescribing provider is not enrolled in Medi-Cal FFS under their individual NPI — regardless of participation in managed care or Medicare.
Some Medicare claims for venom allergy immunotherapy were incorrectly denied. Noridian is fixing the issue, and affected claims should be resubmitted after system updates are complete.
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