Earn the UPMC LGBTQIA+ Affirming Provider designation!
Sep. 2024Important Notices
Improving antibiotic prescribing is a priority as antibiotics are still widely overprescribed for conditions where they are not indicated. Beginning or building an antibiotic stewardship program is an effective way to improve health outcomes and reduce costs related to antibiotic resistance. Providers can embrace antibiotic stewardship efforts using these and other best practices:
- Follow HEDIS® quality measures such as Appropriate Testing for Pharyngitis (CWP), Appropriate Treatment for Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), and Avoidance of Antibiotic Treatment for Bronchitis/Bronchiolitis (AAB).
- Adhere to clinical practice guidelines by prescribing antibiotics strictly in accordance with evidence-based national and local clinical practice guidelines, taking care to prescribe per population.
- Close knowledge gaps by reviewing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention antibiotic stewardship bundles for online training modules and tools and guidance by care setting, audience, and resource type.
Read Provider Partner Update (see page 19) for more tips to help strengthen antibiotic stewardship efforts and improve health outcomes.
HEDIS® The Healthcare Electiveness’ Data and Information Set (HEDIS®) is a registered trademark of NCQA.
Recent Announcements
Voluntary nationwide recall: Ocaliva (Intercept – September)
Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is voluntarily withdrawing Ocaliva® (obeticholic acid) from the market. Ocaliva is used to treat a rare liver disease called primary biliary cholangitis (PBC).Oct. 2025Pharmacy Updates
HelpScript service helps patients enroll in manufacturer copay assistance programs
End-to-end provider support helps ensure a smooth submission processOct. 2025Important Notices
Important announcement – Telehealth submissions
As of October 1, 2025, UPMC Health Plan continues to accept the submission of telehealth claims. Providers may conduct telehealth visits for UPMC Health Plan members in all UPMC Insurance products. UPMC Insurance products include UPMC Advantage group and individual products, UPMC for Life Medicare Advantage plans, UPMC for Kids CHIP plans, UPMC Community HealthChoices, and UPMC for You Medical Assistance plans.Sep. 2025Important Notices