Availity Essentials is Healthfirst’s New Provider Portal
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Availity Essentials offers a wide range of tools for providers, including real time-eligibility and benefits verification, claims management, prior authorization requests, and more.
Explore helpful Healthfirst plan resources for 2026
Healthfirst offers health plans for all New Yorkers
Updated Healthfirst at a Glance guides offer an overview of Healthfirst's plan offerings for 2026.
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What's New
View allIntegra Partners to Manage Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies Prior Authorization Requests
Effective June 1, 2026, Integra Partners will manage prior authorization (Utilization Management) for all Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) on behalf of Healthfirst for all plans.
View postChanges to Prior Authorization Submissions for Back Pain Management and Spinal Surgery Services
Starting June 1, 2026, Healthfirst providers will need to submit prior authorizations via Optum’s Spine, Pain, and Joint portal as the OrthoNet portal will be discontinued.
View postAvaility Essentials is Healthfirst's New Provider Portal
Providers can access all Healthfirst tools through Availity Essentials, our new secure provider portal platform.
View postPrior Authorization Required for Select Codes Starting April 1, 2026
Effective April 1, 2026, Healthfirst will require prior authorization requirements for several CPT codes currently managed by Evicore.
View postCost Sharing Removed for Mobile Crisis Services for Essential Plan Members
Effective January 1, 2026, cost sharing will not apply to Essential Plan (EP) members receiving Mobile Crisis Services. This includes Healthfirst EP 1, 2, 3, 4, and 200–250 plans.
View postPrior Authorization No Longer Required for Select Codes Starting April 1, 2026
Effective April 1, 2026, Healthfirst will remove prior authorization requirements for several CPT codes currently managed by Integra.
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