Gelsyn-3 × Anthem Blue Cross

Gelsyn-3 Insurance Coverage with Anthem Blue Cross

Everything you need to know about getting Gelsyn-3 viscosupplementation injections covered under Anthem Blue Cross, including requirements, costs, and approval steps.

Not Typically Covered

Anthem Blue Cross does not typically cover Gelsyn-3. See alternatives and appeal options below.

Coverage Details

Coverage Status

Not Covered

Prior Authorization

Not typically required

Estimated Cost

$500-$800 per course (3 injections)

Self-pay (without coverage)

Injection Schedule

3 weekly injections

Can repeat Every 6 months as needed

Prior Authorization for HA Injections

Prior authorization is generally not required

Anthem Blue Cross typically does not require prior authorization for Gelsyn-3. However, your provider should verify eligibility and ensure documentation supports medical necessity.

Expected Costs

Scenario	Estimated Cost
Self-pay (without insurance)	$500-$800 per course (3 injections)
Number of injections	3 weekly injections
Repeat frequency	Every 6 months as needed

Costs are estimates and may vary based on your specific plan, location, and provider. Contact Anthem Blue Cross to verify your exact out-of-pocket costs.

How to Get Approved

If your Gelsyn-3 treatment has been denied by Anthem Blue Cross, here are steps to appeal:

1 Use in-network providers
2 Track injection frequency and spacing
3 Document pain levels and functional limitations

Common Denial Reasons

Out-of-network provider
Excessive injection frequency
Missing diagnosis documentation

Other HA Brands & Anthem Blue Cross

Compare how Anthem Blue Cross covers other viscosupplementation brands:

Brand	Schedule	Source	Cost w/ Insurance	Details
Synvisc-One	Single injection	Avian	$100-$300 with Medicare/insurance	View
Monovisc	Single injection	Avian	$100-$350 with insurance	View
Durolane	Single injection	Non-Avian	$150-$400 with insurance	View
Gel-One	Single injection	Avian	$100-$300 with insurance	View
Hymovis	2 weekly injections	Non-Avian	$100-$300 with insurance	View
Euflexxa	3 weekly injections	Non-Avian	$75-$250 with insurance	View
SynoJoynt	3 weekly injections	Non-Avian	$75-$200 with insurance	View
Orthovisc	3-4 weekly injections	Avian	$100-$250 with insurance	View

Compare Insurance Plans for Gelsyn-3

See how other insurance plans cover Gelsyn-3:

What Your Doctor Needs to Submit

To get Gelsyn-3 approved by Anthem Blue Cross, your doctor's office will need to prepare the following documentation:

Knee Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

Confirmed diagnosis of knee OA using ICD-10 code M17 (or appropriate subcode). The documentation should include clinical findings from physical examination.

X-Ray Evidence

Radiographic imaging showing joint space narrowing, osteophytes, or other degenerative changes consistent with knee osteoarthritis. Images should be recent (within 6-12 months).

Failed Conservative Treatment

Records showing the patient tried and failed conservative treatments for at least 3-6 months. This includes physical therapy, exercise, weight management, OTC pain medications, and/or prescription anti-inflammatories.

Letter of Medical Necessity

A written statement from the treating physician explaining why Gelsyn-3 is medically necessary for this patient, including why conservative treatments were insufficient.

Prior Authorization Form

While prior authorization may not be required, having documentation ready helps avoid delays. Include the appropriate J-code for Gelsyn-3 and supporting clinical information.

Tip: Ask your doctor's office to confirm they have all required documentation before submitting to Anthem Blue Cross. Incomplete submissions are the most common reason for delays and initial denials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Anthem Blue Cross cover Gelsyn-3?

Gelsyn-3 is not typically covered by Anthem Blue Cross. The self-pay cost ranges from $500-$800 per course (3 injections). You may want to appeal the denial with supporting documentation from your doctor, or consider alternative brands that may be covered.

How much does Gelsyn-3 cost with Anthem Blue Cross?

Since Anthem Blue Cross does not typically cover Gelsyn-3, you would pay the full self-pay cost of $500-$800 per course (3 injections) for the 3 weekly injections injection schedule. You can repeat treatment Every 6 months as needed. Ask your doctor about covered alternatives or consider filing an appeal.

Do I need prior authorization for Gelsyn-3 with Anthem Blue Cross?

Anthem Blue Cross generally does not require prior authorization for Gelsyn-3. However, your provider should verify your eligibility and ensure documentation supports medical necessity. Requirements can vary by specific plan, so it is always wise to confirm with your insurance before scheduling.

What is the injection schedule for Gelsyn-3?

Gelsyn-3 uses a 3 weekly injections schedule. It is manufactured by Bioventus and uses a non-avian (biofermented) hyaluronic acid source with Medium-High molecular weight. Treatment can be repeated Every 6 months as needed.

What if Anthem Blue Cross denies coverage for Gelsyn-3?

If denied, you have the right to appeal. Ask for the denial reason in writing, then work with your doctor to submit an appeal including X-ray evidence of osteoarthritis, documentation of at least 3-6 months of failed conservative treatments (physical therapy, OTC pain relievers, exercise), and a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Many initially denied claims are approved on appeal. You can also ask about alternative covered brands.