Important Notice About Psychological Testing & Anthem/Blue Cross Blue Shield

Important Notice About Psychological Testing & Blue Cross Blue Shield

Dear Families,

Unfortunately, Anthem/Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance has recently enacted a deeply concerning change that affects psychological testing services for those using this insurance.

BCBS has drastically reduced reimbursement rates for testing FOR CERTAIN PRACTICES. We have not been provided any information on how they chose select practices; however, our practice has been affected. We have reached out and complained and have been told by the CEO “We confirmed your practice was included in the fee schedule update.  You can access Availity to terminate your contract if needed.”

Unfortunately, these new rates fall below the actual cost of providing ethical, comprehensive psychological evaluations. This includes not only time spent face-to-face, but also the cost of test materials, the cost of test scoring, and report time spent writing reports (which are required in order to receive services through your insurance company) — critical components that ensure accurate diagnoses and care coordination. 

What This Means for You:

• Effective immediately, I am no longer able to add any new appointments for psychological testing services through BCBS. 

• Continuing to do so under the current rates would mean compromising the quality and ethical standards of care — something Children’s Autism Assessment Center cannot and will not do. If you have worked with our practice before, you know that we deeply care about our clients and adhere to the utmost ethical standards. Please understand that we do not make this decision lightly. 

This Is About More Than Just Reimbursement

This situation is not about how much psychologists make — it’s about your access to ethical, high-quality care. When insurance companies make unilateral decisions that devalue mental health services, families lose access to essential supports like autism evaluations and more.

How You Can Help

If this decision affects you or someone in your family, I strongly encourage you to contact BCBS Member Services and share how the inability to access testing will impact your child’s education, treatment, or overall well-being. These are the voices that matter most — yours.

This isn’t just about providers — it’s about families being denied necessary services. When clients speak up, insurers listen.

I remain committed to advocating for accessible, ethical psychological care, and I appreciate your understanding and support. Please reach out to us at (404)390-1322 or info@caacatlanta.com if you have any additional questions. 

Sincerely,

Brandi D. Smith, Psy.D.

Licensed Psychologist, Owner

Children’s Autism Assessment Center